In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among met with a delegation of Members of Parliament from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to discuss regional security and commerce.
The meeting emphasized the importance of peace and security in fostering economic growth and integration between the two nations.
"We are very eager to increase and improve cross-border trade; ensure there is peace and security in the two countries, and you cannot do business when you don’t have peace," Speaker Among stressed, highlighting the critical role of security in enabling economic development.
The discussion centered on parliamentary diplomacy, with Speaker Among urging MPs from both countries to become anchors and guarantors of peace and prosperity for their peoples.
"The meeting will deliberate upon legislative cooperation especially between the DRC and Uganda; we can be able to benchmark and mutually learn best practices from one another," she added.
Lambert Mende, head of the DRC delegation, expressed confidence in the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, advocating for Parliament to be the focal point for bolstering cooperation.
"The purpose of this meeting is to strengthen the relations between DRC and Uganda, and we should form a DRC – Uganda friendship group to foster peace, cooperation and good neighbourliness," he said.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC, which has imposed severe hardship on neighboring communities, requires urgent attention.
Mende emphasized the need for collective action to address this pressing issue.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Sports,Peter Ogwang and Clerk to Parliament Adolf Mwesige, demonstrating the commitment of both nations to strengthening their relationship.
This diplomatic effort aims to enhance regional trade, security, and cooperation, paving the way for a more prosperous and peaceful future for Uganda and the DRC.