Uganda, China hold bilateral talks ahead of third Horn of Africa peace conference

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John Mulimba, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs/Regional Affairs, has held a meeting with Mr Xue Bing, the Special Envoy for Horn of Africa Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

The meeting, which took place on Tuesday, June 17, focused on preparations for the upcoming Third Horn of Africa Peace Conference scheduled to take place in Kampala at the end of next month.

During the discussions, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace, security, and sustainable development and emphasised the importance of inclusive dialogue, regional cooperation, and political stability as key pillars for development in the Horn of Africa.

A media release from the Foreign Affairs ministry indicates that Xue lauded Uganda’s efforts in promoting peace and stability in the region and noted the strong relations between the two countries. He expressed optimism that the upcoming Peace Conference would deliver tangible outcomes that benefit the entire Horn of Africa.

Relatedly, Mulimba commended China’s continued support to Uganda’s national development agenda, particularly in areas such as collaboration in the Digital economy, Agricultural value addition and Agro-processing, as well as Infrastructure and industrial manufacturing

The meeting also explored ways to expand cooperation under the Beijing Implementation Framework, especially in light of Uganda’s prominent role in China-Africa cooperation this year.

(Courtesy)

(Courtesy)

The leaders also exchanged views on pressing regional challenges and opportunities for multilateral engagement, emphasising the need for continued dialogue and coordinated efforts in addressing emerging threats to peace.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties pledging to strengthen bilateral ties and work together in pursuit of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Horn of Africa.

China hosted the 2nd Horn of Africa Peace Conference, while the first one the first one was held in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa in June 2022.

The Initiative of Peaceful Development in the Horn of Africa is a Chinese solution proposed by China at the beginning of 2022 to assist the peace and development process in the Horn of Africa.