By CHIMPREPORTS
Uganda’s top Foreign Affairs Ministry officials held talks with the East African Community (EAC) Secretary-General Peter Mathuki in Arusha, Tanzania, on Wednesday.
“The talks revolved around infrastructure development, energy, cross-boundary matters, shared natural resources, intra-regional trade, single currency, peace and security, and political federation,” said the EAC in a brief statement.
The Ugandan delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, Hon. Vincent Bagiire, comprised the Director of Regional Economic Cooperation, Ambassador Richard Kabonero, and Uganda’s Consul General to Arusha, Anne Katusiime.
The EAC Secretariat has been holding meetings with the private sector to improve the business environment through the reduction in the cost of doing business, policy reforms, improving the competitiveness of regional products against those from outside under the Africa Continental Free Trade Areas (AfCFTA) market, and increasing intra-EAC trade and investment.
Scheduled from February 20-22, 2024, the officials’ visit also includes courtesy calls to relevant organizations such as the East African Business Council, Pan African Postal Union, ESAMI, East African Legislative Assembly, and East African Court of Justice.
These interactions are expected to strengthen ties and explore avenues for collaboration within the region.
Bagiire and Kabonero are expected to use these engagements to appreciate the vital role the Consulate plays in the Regional Integration Agenda.
The Ugandan officials will also conduct a comprehensive Mission Inspection following the recent upgrade of the country’s Consulate’s status and the inauguration of its new premises.
In November 2021, the Tanzanian government granted the former Uganda High Commission Liaison Office the status of a Consulate.
In November 2022, following the upgrade of the Liaison office to a Consulate, Ambassador Anne Katusiime was appointed as the Consul General of the Uganda Consulate in Arusha.
The journey began in 2016 when the East African Community (EAC) Council of Ministers decided to establish a Liaison Office in Arusha. Uganda subsequently established the Liaison Office in 2017, marking a significant step towards strengthening diplomatic relations.
Initially situated on the 7th Floor of Mafao House, Old Moshi Road, the Liaison Office served as a hub for collaboration. However, its elevation to Consulate status necessitated relocation to more suitable premises to enhance visibility and effectiveness.
In July 2023, the Consulate relocated to Plot 23 B Haile Selassie Road, a move officials described as symbolizing a new beginning and Uganda’s commitment to projecting a positive image in Arusha and neighboring regions.
The inauguration of the Consulate took place on November 25, 2023, with President Museveni presiding over the ceremony.
Meetings between Ugandan officials and Consulate staff are intended to provide insights into their roles and challenges, with discussions focusing on strategies for enhancing effectiveness.
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