Sikuphe – Lesotho’s King Letsie III and Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso arrived in the Kingdom of Eswatini on Thursday afternoon, where they were accorded a royal welcome at King Mswati III International Airport in Ezulwini.
Upon arrival, the royal couple received an official salute from the Eswatini military parade, followed by a vibrant traditional welcome marked by local music and dance performances.
The King and Queen were received by Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Senator Pholile Shakantu, Minister of Public Works and Transport Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, and Lesotho’s High Commissioner to Eswatini, H.E. Ntsime Jafeta. 
King Letsie III is among the special guests expected to attend the celebrations at Somhlolo National Stadium, with his visit pointing to the strong diplomatic and royal ties between the two neighbouring kingdoms.
Lesotho’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Lejone Mpotjoane, who is accompanying Their Majesties, told reporters that although Lesotho and Eswatini share similar cultural values, Eswatini’s culture stands out as particularly rich and vibrant. He noted that Eswatini has in recent times played a role in influencing the revival of Basotho cultural practices, pointing to the contribution of Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso, who has taken a leading role in promoting culture through performances at national events.
Minister Mpotjoane also revealed that King Letsie III has been nominated to deliver remarks on behalf of all invited Heads of State and Government during the ongoing ceremonies marking His Majesty King Mswati III’s 58th birthday anniversary and the Ruby Jubilee of his reign.
Crown Prince Lerotholi Mohato Seeiso and Princess Senate Mohato Seeiso, who form part of the royal delegation, arrived earlier on Wednesday ahead of Their Majesties.
Former Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina also touched down at King Mswati III International Airport, becoming the second distinguished guest to arrive. He was received by Prime Minister Dlamini and Minister Shakantu as Eswatini continued rolling out the red carpet for what promises to be a historic occasion.
Other regional leaders are also expected to grace the occasion, with delegations anticipated from Zimbabwe, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, among others.
As the guests arrived, emaSwati dressed in vibrant traditional attire welcomed the dignitaries with song and dance in a powerful expression of unity and cultural pride.
