JOINT STATEMENT

17.04.2020
Maseru

As the international community focuses on fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of maintaining stability and the rule of law in Lesotho has never been greater.  As the diplomatic representatives of the European Union, the Republic of South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States, all of which have experienced high numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases, we urge a united approach that prioritizes the protection of citizens and the provision of essential services.  It is critical that first line responders and key workers be allowed to carry out their duties, according to the law, without interference or obstruction.  We further underline the need for close co-operation between security agencies and national leadership in order to address the current challenge, which may remain with us for some time.

We are committed to supporting Lesotho and its neighbours in addressing the impact of COVID-19, both on individual health and on the economy. Destabilizing actions could be catastrophic for Basotho for generations; this is the time for all leaders to act together in the national interest.

 

Ambassador Christian ManahlEuropean Union in Lesotho

High Commissioner Sello MolotoHigh Commission of South Africa in Lesotho

High Commissioner Anne MacroHigh Commission of the United Kingdom in Lesotho

Ambassador Rebecca GonzalesEmbassy of the United States of America in Lesotho