Uganda and Norway have concluded a one-day bilateral consultation meeting with commitments to strengthen economic cooperation, expand trade, and promote investment between the two countries.
The meeting, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala, was co-chaired by Uganda’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. John Mulimba, and Norway’s Minister for International Development, Mr. Åsmund Grøver Aukrust.
Discussions centred on economic cooperation, regional peace and security, and broader multilateral relations, with both sides reaffirming their long-standing diplomatic ties.
Hon. Mulimba acknowledged Norway’s continued support for Uganda’s development priorities, particularly in education, renewable energy, and women’s empowerment. However, he noted that trade volumes between the two countries remain relatively low.
In 2024, Uganda’s exports to Norway stood at approximately USD 1 million, while imports from Norway were valued at about USD 6 million. He called for renewed efforts to improve the trade balance and expand commercial engagement.
Mr Aukrust commended the strong bilateral relationship and highlighted ongoing collaboration in peacebuilding and multilateral engagement. He also praised Uganda’s refugee policy, describing it as exemplary given the country’s position in a region affected by instability.
Both delegations emphasised the importance of regional peace and security, underscoring dialogue and inclusive engagement as essential tools for conflict resolution and sustainable stability. Uganda’s role in supporting regional peace initiatives was also recognised.
The two sides further agreed on the need for reforms within the United Nations system to ensure it remains responsive to current global challenges and geopolitical realities.
Additionally, Uganda and Norway agreed to convene a Norway–Uganda Trade and Investment Summit before the end of 2027. The summit is expected to attract Norwegian investment into Uganda and further strengthen bilateral trade relations.
Mr Aukrust was accompanied by Ms Tone Tinnes, Ambassador of Norway to Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and Comoros; Mr Kyrre Holm, Director for Africa at Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Mr André Stiansen, Norwegian Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa.
