Uzbekistan establishes diplomatic relations with Lesotho

Uzbekistan and Lesotho signed a Joint Communiqué on the establishment of diplomatic relations in New York on March 27, the Dunyo news agency reported.

According to the report, the Kingdom of Lesotho has become the 166th country with which Uzbekistan has established diplomatic relations. The document was signed on behalf of the two governments by Uzbekistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ulugbek Lapasov and Lesotho’s Permanent Representative Matete Nena.

During the meeting, the parties emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation within international organizations, including the United Nations and its specialized agencies. The sides also agreed to continue dialogue and explore mutually beneficial areas of cooperation, particularly in political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian fields.

“The signing of this document marks another step toward expanding Uzbekistan’s comprehensive cooperation with countries of the African continent,” the statement said.

For reference, Lesotho is a unique state located in Southern Africa. It is one of the few enclave countries in the world, entirely surrounded by South Africa. The country is fully mountainous and is the only independent state in the world where no point lies below 1,400 meters above sea level. Its capital is Maseru. The population is approximately 2.3 million, with the Basotho people forming the majority. The official languages are Sesotho and English. Lesotho gained independence from the United Kingdom on October 4, 1966 (formerly known as Basutoland).

Earlier, on September 26, 2025, Uzbekistan established diplomatic relations with Palau, which became the 165th country with which Uzbekistan has diplomatic ties.