Lesotho’s Foreign Minister expressed disappointment after President Trump’s comments questioning the nation’s recognition. Trump jokingly referred to the country during a congressional speech regarding financial aid, prompting concerns over generalizations about less wealthy nations. Despite Trump’s remarks, Lesotho maintains strong U.S. aid ties and has burgeoning connections with Elon Musk for potential advancements in technology and internet service.
Lesotho’s Foreign Minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, expressed disappointment following President Donald Trump’s remarks during a congressional address, where he claimed that few, if anyone, knows of the African nation. Mpotjoane emphasized the surprising nature of Trump’s generalization, suggesting that it stemmed from Lesotho’s economic status. Furthermore, he cautioned that the United States might one day seek support from Lesotho despite the president’s dismissive tone.
During his address, Trump referenced the nation in the context of foreign aid, humorously questioning the allocation of contracts for promotion of LGBTQI+ rights. He remarked, “Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of,” eliciting laughter from attendees including Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson.
Lesotho is a significant recipient of U.S. aid, receiving approximately $44 million from USAID last year alone. When queried about the specific LGBTQI+ funding, Minister Mpotjoane mentioned that he was not familiar with the purported $8 million grant, given that USAID funds are distributed primarily through NGOs.
Despite Trump’s comments, notable figures such as Elon Musk maintain connections with Lesotho. Musk met with Prime Minister Sam Matekane last September to discuss Starlink’s potential internet access for the nation’s 2.3 million residents. The Lesotho Communications Authority confirmed receipt of Starlink’s application for a decade-long operating license, aiming for expansion across many African nations, where Musk’s company is already active in providing services.
The interaction between Musk and Lesotho’s leadership indicates a potential for advanced technological support for the country. Musk’s relationship with Lesotho is underlined by the geographical proximity of his birthplace, Pretoria, South Africa, located a mere 491 kilometers from Maseru, Lesotho’s capital, which also hosts a U.S. embassy.
The remarks made by President Trump regarding Lesotho have drawn significant attention and disappointment from the nation’s leadership. The interaction illustrates a disconnect regarding the nation’s importance, particularly in the context of international aid. Moreover, the ties that prominent figures like Elon Musk have with Lesotho reflect the burgeoning opportunities for technological engagement in the region. As Lesotho continues to receive substantial aid and explore advancements through companies like Elon Musk’s, its global presence may grow beyond current perceptions.
Original Source: globalnews.ca
