Ugandan Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo held productive discussions with Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia’s Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, during her official visit to Russia.
The meeting focused on deepening the longstanding friendly relations between Russia and Uganda, with both sides emphasizing the importance of expanding multifaceted cooperation.
The talks centered on preparations for the upcoming session of the Intergovernmental Russian-Ugandan Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, which aims to bolster trade and economic ties.
Both parties expressed a shared commitment to advancing partnerships across various sectors, reinforcing the foundation of their bilateral relationship.
In addition to bilateral matters, the leaders exchanged views on international issues of mutual interest.
Moscow and Kampala reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing foreign policy coordination and aligning their efforts within the United Nations and other multilateral platforms to address global challenges.
The meeting underscores the growing collaboration between Russia and Uganda, as both nations seek to strengthen their strategic partnership in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Russia-Uganda relations
Russia-Uganda relations, established in 1962, have grown significantly, rooted in historical Soviet support for African anti-colonial movements.
Diplomatic ties are marked by mutual respect, with embassies in Kampala and Moscow.
Key developments include a 1964 trade agreement, economic cooperation, and recent defense partnerships. Russia has supplied Uganda with military equipment, including T-72 tanks, MiG-21 fighters, and Mi-28 helicopters, with a $100 million donation in 2024 strengthening ties.
Trade has expanded, with Russia exporting $90.2 million (mostly cereals) and Uganda $18.1 million in 2021.
Recent collaborations involve nuclear energy discussions, a $3 million Russian donation of military mapping gear, and a joint declaration against space weaponization.
President Museveni has praised Russia’s historical and ongoing support, emphasizing defence and potential cooperation in fertilizers, oil, and space technology.
High-level visits, like Museveni’s to Russia and Lavrov’s to Uganda, underscore deepening ties, with Uganda joining BRICS as a partner in 2025, signaling stronger political and economic alignment despite Western tensions.