Lesotho Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane met with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres on September 18 to discuss a range of issues, including UN efforts to consolidate peace, stability, and development across the globe.
Matekane acknowledged the efforts of the UN system in Lesotho, including the UN Country Office and specialized UN agencies, for their assistance to Lesotho in times of need. He also discussed the comprehensive national reform process and the status of the Omnibus Bill, which is currently awaiting finalization by Parliament. Matekane requested additional support from the UN to help Lesotho implement the reforms and bring political stability, transparency, and accountability to the country’s governance.
Matekane also underscored Lesotho’s desire to play a pivotal role in advocating for support for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). He expressed appreciation for the Secretary General’s proposal on the SDG Stimulus, which aims to accelerate progress on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. Matekane concluded by inviting the Secretary General to visit Lesotho.
In response, Guterres commended the Prime Minister for his efforts to strengthen state capacity, conclude national reforms, and address governance and developmental challenges in Lesotho. He reaffirmed the UN’s continued support for Lesotho, including as an LDC and LLDC. Guterres also expressed the dire need for reform of the global financial architecture.
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