Uganda, Ethiopia Sign 8 Pacts to Boost Bilateral Cooperation

The 4th Session of the Ethiopia-Uganda Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) concluded on April 4 in Addis Ababa with remarkable success. It was marked by the signing of eight bilateral cooperation agreements across a wide range of sectors, including aviation, minerals, water resources, and agriculture.

Uganda’s delegation was led by Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, Minister of Foreign Affairs. He was accompanied by Hon. Francis Mwebesa (Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives), Hon. Fred Byamukama (Minister of State for Transport), Hon. Bwino Kyakulaga (Minister of State for Agriculture), and Hon. Gen. David Rubakuba Muhoozi (Minister of State for Internal Affairs).

The Ethiopian delegation was led by H.E. Dr Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs, alongside H.E. Dr Kassahun Gofe (Minister of Trade and Regional Integration), H.E. Mr Getachew Menegste, and other senior officials, CEOs, and institutional representatives.

In his opening remarks, Dr Timothewos warmly welcomed Hon. Gen. Odongo and his team to Addis Ababa, expressing Ethiopia’s pleasure in hosting the fourth session. He noted that the Commission presents a significant opportunity to review bilateral relations and deepen cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.

Dr. Timothewos emphasised the importance of regional collaboration to address common challenges and praised the strong partnership between Ethiopia and Uganda on the equitable use of Nile waters.

He also highlighted the shared commitment to combating terrorism in the region through joint efforts under IGAD.

Hon. Odongo, in turn, thanked the Ethiopian delegation and acknowledged the continued strength of bilateral relations, which have thrived despite a six-year gap since the last JMC session.

He pointed to consistent high-level visits and ongoing collaboration in multiple sectors as a testament to both countries’ unwavering commitment.

“This JMC is another key milestone in our journey to elevate our bilateral relations,” said Hon. Odongo. “It opens new avenues for cooperation and reaffirms our shared resolve to work together.”

He highlighted several areas discussed during the session, including diplomatic consultations, transboundary water management, regional peace and security, trade, energy, immigration, tourism, agriculture, and transport.

The session culminated in the signing of eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) Bilateral Air Services Agreement, MoU on Industrial Cooperation, MoU on Cooperation in the Energy Sector, MoU on Water Resource Management, MoU on Technical Cooperation in Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, MoU on Cooperation in Aviation Training, MoU on Cooperation and Assistance in Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and MoU on Trade Cooperation.

Both Ministers reaffirmed their governments’ full commitment to implementing the agreed outcomes and advancing bilateral ties to new heights.