President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni applauded China’s role in developing Africa in his meeting with Mr. Liu Guozhong a Special Representative of President Xi Jinping of China, during the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G-77+ China Summits at Munyonyo Kampala.
Mr. Guozhong, also a Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the Vice Premier of the State Council, is representing President Xi Jinping at the summits.
Expressing gratitude, President Museveni acknowledged China’s enduring support during the anti-colonial struggle and highlighted its pivotal role in fostering Africa’s economic development since gaining independence and he emphasized the historical ties between China and Africa, noting China’s economic support dating back to 1964 when the Tanzania-Zambia railway was initiated.
President Museveni called for balanced value-added trade, urging China to open its market to African products.
He further stressed the significance of market access as a mutually beneficial strategy for sustainable support, fostering prosperity and strengthening economic ties.
“Now what we want is to put emphasis on market access because this is the best way to help one another sustainably because if you support what I produce , you are supporting my prosperity and when I buy what you produce, I am supporting your prosperity so China should open their markets to African products it is a very easy way of how to help one another for mutual benefit,” he explained.
In response, Mr. Guozhong conveyed warm greetings from President Xi Jinping, praising Uganda’s economic and social development under President Museveni’s leadership and he highlighted China’s historical commitment to supporting African nations and assured continued assistance in various areas, including medical aid, cultural exchanges, youth programs, and educational opportunities.
Furthermore, Mr. Guozhong noted China’s support for Uganda in opposing external interference in its internal affairs, emphasizing China’s commitment to speaking up for Uganda on international platforms to safeguard its sovereignty.
Commending Uganda’s success in hosting the NAM summit, Mr. Guozhong expressed deep appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to the Chinese delegation.
He also lauded President Museveni’s vision for market access and revealed that China has granted zero tariffs on 98% of taxable items from Uganda, fostering greater trade collaboration.
The meeting, attended by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of International Affairs, Hon. Henry Okello Oryem, and H.E Adonia Ayebare, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Uganda to the United Nations, showcased the strong ties between Uganda and China, highlighting mutual cooperation for the benefit of both nations.