Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has concluded his successful working visit to Uganda where he attended the inauguration ceremony of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Thursday, in Kampala.
The President joined other African Heads of State and Government, who attended the ceremony, to congratulate President Museveni who was re-elected as the President of Uganda in February 2016.
“As South Africa we congratulate President Museveni and the people of Uganda for a successful Presidential inauguration ceremony. Uganda continues to play a critical role in Africa, particularly in the East Africa Community block where the country is recognized for its good work in conflict resolution processes,” said President Zuma.
The two Heads of State met briefly immediately after the ceremony where they reaffirmed bilateral relations between the two countries and also discussed political and security situation in the Republic of Burundi, as well as the deteriorating security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
During the meeting, President Museveni briefed President Zuma on the progress made in the mediation process in the Republic of Burundi where he was appointed as a mediator by the East Africa Community.
President Zuma was also appointed to lead an African Union High-Level Delegation of Heads of State and Government established to facilitate peace talks and help restore peace and stability in Burundi.
The two leaders further agreed to strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and Uganda.
The two countries enjoy cordial bilateral relations that were cemented during South Africa’s liberation struggle period.
Over the years, relations between the two countries have continued to grow, with over 20 signed bilateral agreements in place.
At an economical level, there are approximately 70 South African companies currently operating in Uganda.
In 2015, South African exports to Uganda amounted to R1.7 billion, while South African imports totalled R98 million.
President Zuma was accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane. – SAnews.gov.za
