Lesotho Reacts to Trump's Controversial Comments on 'Obscurity'

Following US President Trump's recent speech where he referred to Lesotho as a country "nobody has heard of," the nation’s government has expressed shock, reaffirming its established diplomatic ties and economic partnerships with the United States.

Lesotho's government has been left reeling after US President Donald Trump, in his recent speech to Congress, claimed that "nobody has ever heard of" the African nation. This comment arose during his critique of government spending, pointing to an $8 million allocation aimed at promoting LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, prompting amusement from some lawmakers present. A spokesperson from Lesotho's foreign affairs department conveyed their disappointment, highlighting the warm diplomatic relations the nation maintains with the US.

Lesotho, which significantly benefits from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) – allowing reduced tariffs on exports to the US – traded approximately $240 million in goods with America in 2024, primarily in textiles and apparel. Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane remarked on the surprising nature of the remarks, reminding observers of Lesotho's presence as a member of the UN and the existence of a US embassy within its borders.

Despite the offhanded comments, officials downplayed the incident as a political quip, asserting the cordial relations between the two nations remain intact. The government also touched upon the disruptions caused by the suspension of aid under Trump's previous administration, such as the ending of the President's Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar). While acknowledging the cuts, Mpotjoane refrained from critiquing the decision, labeling it as the US's prerogative.

Lesotho's place on the world stage continues to be debated, but its officials remain hopeful for continued cooperation with the United States. As the country navigates these remarks, it remains committed to fostering productive diplomatic ties.