anniversary of their independence
5 October 2006
Deputy President, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, wishes to, on behalf of the
government of South Africa and its people, congratulate the Government of
Lesotho on their 40th anniversary of their independence.
The Deputy President attended the celebrations in Maseru Lesotho, yesterday,
4 October 2006, on behalf of South African Government.
âLesotho has been a staunch supporter of our liberation struggle, for that
they have paid very dearly with numerous reprisals from the apartheid regime.
We also share a great deal with Lesotho from a cultural, language and the
waters from the highlands of Lesotho,â said the Deputy President.
âThe fact that Lesotho celebrates 40 years of their independence is a matter
of great pride to us. As their only neighbour we wish to congratulate them,â
she continued.
The Deputy President also indicated that the fact that âa great number of
Basotho live and work in South Africa concretely cements our long standing
close relationsâ.
Several other African countries attended the event at which the new Lesotho
flag was also unveiled.
Enquiries:
Thabang Chiloane
Cell: 082 8888 783
Issued by: The Presidency
5 October 2006
