KUWAIT: Ambassador of Lesotho to Kuwait, Manthabiseng Phohleli, highlighted the longstanding and cordial relationship between Kuwait and the Kingdom of Lesotho during a statement on Thursday. “We have had a strong relationship with Kuwait for nearly 30 years, initially covering Kuwait from Egypt before relocating our mission here in 2010. Our King visited Kuwait in 2010, coinciding with our establishment of the mission. Additionally, we have supported Kuwait in various UN assemblies, especially during times of diplomatic disagreements with other nations,” Ambassador Phohleli said.

Reflecting on her own experience, the ambassador noted, “When I presented my credentials to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, he expressed great joy, sending heartfelt messages to my King, emphasizing the importance of continuing and strengthening the bond between our nations. He conveyed deep gratitude for Lesotho’s support during Kuwait’s challenging moments.”

The ambassador extended her appreciation to the people of Kuwait, saying, “The government of Lesotho and I are sincerely grateful to His Highness the Amir for his leadership, and we wish him continued health, peace, and prosperity. His efforts for the betterment of the Kuwaiti people are truly commendable.” Ambassador Phohleli also praised the warm reception she received upon her arrival, remarking that even her predecessors had described Kuwait as “a home away from home.”

Looking ahead, she shared that Lesotho would be celebrating the birth of its founder, Moshoeshoe I, on March 11. “We are grateful for his unification of the tribes of Lesotho into a cohesive nation after British colonization,” she added. Addressing visa procedures, the ambassador confirmed that the process between the two countries is seamless. “It’s a straightforward process. Kuwaiti citizens wishing to visit Lesotho for tourism can easily apply online,” she explained.

Furthermore, Ambassador Phohleli mentioned that a Mosotho (a person from Lesotho) currently resides in Kuwait, working as a gym trainer. “She applied through LinkedIn and initially worked in Saudi Arabia before coming to Kuwait. We are working closely with the Department of Manpower Authority to encourage more Basotho to work here, as they are known for their strong work ethic,” she stated. The Kingdom of Lesotho, with a population of approximately 2.2 million, has Sesotho as its primary language, alongside English.