On 29 and 30 September 2016, at the invitation of the Lesotho Government, the Chinese Art Troupe "Cultural China and Colorful Yunnan" performed at the National Convention Centre of Lesotho in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of the Kingdom of Lesotho. H.E. Dr. Sun Xianghua (Ambassador of China to Lesotho), Mr. Song Tao (Deputy Governor of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province of China), Hon. Likeleli Tampane (Minister of Tourism, Environment and Culture), Hon. Lekhetho Rakuoane (Minister of Home Affairs), Hon. Moeketse Malebo (Minister of Justice), Hon. Kimetso Mathaba (Minister in the Prime Minister's Office), Hon. Molahlehi Letlotlo (Minister of Social Development), Hon. Ralechate Mokose (Minister of Water), Hon. Tsukutlane Au (Minister of Public Service), Hon. Mokoto Hloaele (Minister of Development Planning), Hon. Molotsi Monyamane (Minister of Health), Hon. Phallang Monare (Deputy Minister of Home Affairs), Hon. Thabang Kholumo (Deputy Minister of Education), and many other honourable Cabinet Ministers and senior government officials, and about 1200 representatives of all walks of life including the Chinese Community in Lesotho attended the performance.
At the opening, Dr. Sun said in his speech that Basotho people's liberation from the yoke of colonialism and founding of independent and sovereign nation state of Lesotho was an important historical event both domestically and internationally. He said that, through the performance, everyone would feel the sincere congratulations and best wishes from the Chinese People and Government, and the friendship between the two countries and peoples would enjoy a brighter future.
Hon. Tampane warmly welcomed the visit of the troupe and commended it as a significant contribution by China to the historic moment in Lesotho. She also highly commented the bilateral friendship and thanked the Chinese Government for cultural exchanges programs and cooperation in other sectors.
The Chinese Art Troupe performed traditional songs, dances, and instruments from the diversified culture of Yunnan Province of China, which made the Jubilee celebration more colorful.