Maseru — The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Kingdom of Lesotho hosted a high-profile diplomatic reception at the Avani Maseru to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Addressing an esteemed audience of government officials, ministers and diplomats, the Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho, Mr.Yang Xiaokun highlighted that this is a milestone year of deep historical significance for both nations.
As China marks its 77th year and transitions into its 15th Five-Year Plan, Lesotho simultaneously celebrates its 60th anniversary of independence, providing a poignant moment to reflect on past achievements and look toward a shared future of mutual prosperity.

Ambassador Yang reflected on the remarkable self-resilience that has driven China's modernization, transforming it into a highly productive and relevant global actor. Under the newly completed 14th Five-Year Plan (2021 - 2025) China's economic strides were massive, propelling its GDP past the monumental 500 trillion yuan cumulative mark alongside profound scientific advancements.

He said data from the first half of this year shows steady progress, with the digital economy and electronic communications expanding rapidly to contribute 40 percent of China's total GDP. He mentioned that despite global economic headwinds, China's trade exports and imports continue to rise, serving as an irreplaceable anchor for stability and a primary contributor to global growth. In his address, Ambassador Yang noted that as China presses ahead, global cooperation is vital to creating an enabling environment for all countries to prosper.

He emphasized the importance of China's Global Governance Initiative (GGI), Global Development Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative, which serve as the blueprint to build a community with a shared future for mankind.
"These initiatives prioritize resolving international disputes through dialogue, respecting diverse civilizations and injecting equity into global structures," he said. Ambassador Yang expressed deep gratitude for Lesotho's support of these initiatives, which have successfully transitioned from concepts into visible, real-world actions.

He lauded the strong bilateral relations, highlighted by warm congratulatory messages from His Majesty King Letsie III and the Prime Minister. He further appreciated Lesotho's steadfast adherence to the One-China Principle and its shared stance with China in opposing protectionism in favour of a fairer international governance system.

He highlighted that the strategic partnership between China and Lesotho has yielded major, tangible successes citing that in July, the two nations signed a landmark agreement on the establishment of AI capabilities, demonstrating emerging high-tech cooperation. Additionally, the launch of Phase Two of the Mafeteng Solar Plant, backed by a M225 million investment, which marks a giant leap forward for Lesotho's green energy autonomy.

Again, he cited that following the signing of export agreements for Lesotho's prized wool and mohair, the implementation of China's zero-tariff policy is poised to turn into a highly valuable market diversification tool for Basotho farmers.
Moreover, he stated that the year 2026 also shines a spotlight on the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Ambassador Yang emphasized that the foundation of true state-to-state cooperation rests upon its people.

"This year alone, more than 270 Basotho nationals traveled to China for professional and academic training programs.
Furthermore, continuous deployments of Chinese medical teams have provided crucial healthcare services across Lesotho.

Cementing these deep cultural bonds, a Chinese musical troupe is scheduled to perform live in the country as part of the celebrations for Lesotho's 60 years of independence," he added. Looking ahead, Ambassador Yang reaffirmed that China stands fully ready to work hand-in-hand with Lesotho to comprehensively execute the strategic outcomes of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, ensuring a brighter, shared future for both nations.

On the other hand, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Mr. Richard Ramoeletsi, extended warm congratulations to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people, celebrating decades of strong bilateral ties built on mutual respect since diplomatic relations were established in 1994.

Reaffirming the strategic partnership to even higher levels, the Minister emphasized that Lesotho remains firmly committed to the One-China principle, recognizing the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing all of China.

He noted that the true strength of this partnership is measured by concrete projects that change lives across Lesotho in key sectors such as infrastructure with key developments including the Maseru District Hospital to advance healthcare access, the ongoing construction of a modern fire station and the Mafeteng power plant.
In agriculture, he noted that China has provided vital support through agricultural machinery, storage facilities and the transformative Juncao technology, which has been implemented across four phases to drive rural diversification as well as an additional M250 million assistance package is set to be handed over next month to support vulnerable communities.

He said medical cooperation remains extraordinary, with Chinese medical teams treating numerous citizens and serving with distinction. He added that recent trade commitments, including the implementation of zero-tariff access, have opened exciting new doors for Lesotho's exports. "Through ongoing scholarship programs, Basotho students have acquired critical knowledge and skills to support government ministries and national development".

Additionally, Minister Ramoeletsi indicated that marking 2026 as a pivotal year for people-to-people partnership, Lesotho and China have launched a new quarterly mechanism to review progress and deepen cooperation.
He said the first review meeting took place in August to assess joint initiatives and align future goals.
Looking ahead, he emphasised that Lesotho aims to expand collaboration into digital transformation, noting Lesotho's active participation in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to bridge the digital divide.

As China marks its 77th anniversary (or milestone celebration), Lesotho proposes a forward-looking action plan focusing on: expanding cooperation in rural energy development; strengthening the national health system and continuing the deployment of Chinese medical teams; widening scholarship opportunities and specialized training in agriculture, finance and communications.

He further expressed profound gratitude for China's enduring friendship, offering heartfelt congratulations on this milestone and looking forward to continued cooperation that yields tangible results for both nations.
Meanwhile, the event was graced by the presence of among others former Prime Ministers Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili and Dr. Moeketsi Majoro, former Deputy Prime Ministers Messrs. Lesao Lehohla, Monyane Moleleki and Mothejoa Metsing.
The People's Republic of China was founded on October 01, 1949.

Communist leader Mao Zedong announced the creation of the nation in Beijing at Tiananmen Square.
The founding followed the victory of the Chinese Communist Party (CPC) over the Nationalist forces in the Chinese Civil War.