KING LETSIE III of Lesotho, noting that his country was founded on the principle of peace, said that its founder “Morena Moshoeshoe I was able to bring together different tribal groups, avert conflicts and negotiate lasting peace that to this day, we strive to maintain”.  The United Nations has continued to forge peace in conflict-ridden areas around the world, he said, reaffirming his country’s commitment to advance the collective vision of a prosperous and lasting future for all. Voicing concern about a troubling trend where 48 developing countries spend more on loan interest payments to developed nations than on essential services, he stressed that this economic inequality drives migration, as refugees seek better opportunities, often leading to xenophobia and conflict in host countries.  “Addressing this inequality is crucial for fostering inclusive development and ensuring global peace and stability,” he stressed.

His Government plans to present its third voluntary national review on sustainable development in 2025 but achieving that requires stronger partnerships and increased financial support, particularly for vulnerable countries that are both least developed and landlocked, he pointed out.  In Lesotho, climate change exacerbates environmental degradation, impacting agriculture, water resources and energy supplies, leading to food shortages which have compelled the Government to declare a state of emergency in food security.  Nonetheless, his country will pursue opportunities that will enable greater self-sufficiency, he said, noting:  “Lesotho’s stock in trade is a high-quality suite of renewable energy resources of sun, wind and a plentiful supply of the purest mountain water.”  This will enable the establishment of a sustainable renewable energy and water economy, he said, adding that Lesotho aims to satisfy the deficit in its domestic energy demand and to export clean energy and high-quality water to the region.  “Our goal to fully meet commitments to the Paris accord well in advance of 2050 will be attained, with the potential of Lesotho being among the first countries in Africa to be a fully carbon-neutral electricity generator,” he added.

Turning to other development goals, he said the Government has implemented policies and laws for gender equality and the protection of women and girls.  It has made strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS, he said, highlighting that since 2010, new HIV infections have been reduced by 74 per cent.  Voicing concern about threats to global peace and security, he said the Security Council must take a proactive leading role in the mediation of disputes and adopt a multilateral approach.  Turning to human rights, he urged the full implementation of UN resolutions aimed at ending all forms of colonialism and occupation, particularly ensuring the right to self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.  The human rights violations in Gaza require urgent attention, he stressed, reiterating his call for a ceasefire and realization of the two-State solution.  “Genuine dialogue and mediation and respecting both parties’ rights and concerns are crucial for resolving the Palestine question,” he added.  He also called for a mediated solution to the unilateral coercive measures imposed on Cuba and the lifting of sanctions on Zimbabwe.

Pointing to the principle of subsidiarity, he called for greater and more effective cooperation between the Security Council and regional organizations, as outlined in Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations, for the swift resolution of regional conflicts.  Further, the Council must be more representative of UN membership and thus enjoy legitimacy, he said, advocating for comprehensive Council reform in line with the common African position, the Ezulwini Consensus.