Bringing together Basotho across China and members of diplomatic corps and representatives of international organizations and friends of Lesotho, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho in Beijing has celebrated the Lesotho’s 60th years of Independence at Beijing.
According to the press statement issued by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho in Beijing, the event was celebrated under theme, “Honoring the past, Shaping the Future”.
It further states the event commenced with the national anthem of Lesotho then followed by the People’s Republic of China and as well Basotho’s cultural prayer.
In her welcome remarks, Her Excellency Ambassador Mapaballo ‘Mile reflected on Lesotho’s journey since attaining its independence on October 04, 1966, further emphasizing the national unity, patriotism, and the importance of building a peaceful and prosperous future.
Ambassador ‘Mile also highlighted the warm and long standing diplomatic relations between the government of Kingdom of Lesotho and the government of the People’s Republic of China, further underscoring the importance of the continued bilateral cooperation and the People-to-People exchanges.
He remarks concluded with the video presentation showcasing Lesotho’s breathtaking landscapes and the country’s trade and investment opportunities, particularly in renewable energy and agriculture, while also emphasizing the potential of its youthful and skilled workforce.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency Ambassador Liu Yuxi congratulated Lesotho on its Diamond Jubilee and reaffirmed China’s commitment in to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation with the Kingdom.
The celebration featured among other the vibrant cultural performances showcasing Lesotho’s rich heritage and friendship between Lesotho and China, whereby one of the renowned Mosotho artist Pitso Shale, popularly known by stage name of Pitso Rah Makhula entertained the guests with Sesotho songs.
On the other hand, Basotho students from Jilin Agricultural University also presented traditional performances, poetry recitation by Mabatho Kobeli and the Chinese cultural performances further enriched the programme.
During the same celebration, the guests enjoyed a fashion show featuring the designs by Mantoa Zim, a young Mosotho designer based in Maseru, highlighting the creativity and potential of Lesotho’s emerging fashion and design industry.
Apart from that, an exhibition outside the reception hall showcased Basotho’s art, crafts, and locally produced goods, whereby among the contributor, included artists such as Kananelo Maphathe and Thapelo Luk Mocheko, alongside artisans Mots’elisi Khoanyane and Nneuoe Chakela from Leribe Arts and Crafts Centre.
The exhibition celebrated the local craftsmanship, youth creativity and the contribution of women to Lesotho’s cultural and economic development, moreover the event provided an important platform for cultural diplomacy, community engagement and the promotion of the Lesotho’s national identity to the international audience and also it also highlighted the role of Basotho living abroad in preserving their heritage and promoting the Kingdom’s image.
The statement further states as Lesotho marks six decades of independence, the Diamond Jubilee offers an opportunity to honor the sacrifices and achievements of the previous generations while embracing a future built on unity, peace, economic transformation and sustainable development.
The embassy further reaffirmed its commitment in strengthening the diplomatic relations with all countries of its accreditation, while advancing the Kingdom’s interests through promotion of economic, cultural and bilateral cooperation.
The celebration concluded with renewed national pride and optimism, reaffirming the Diamond Jubilee message: “Honoring the past, Shaping the Future.”
Source: Lesotho News Agency (LENA), 04/11/2026
