The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba hosted the French Ambassador to Uganda, Virginie Leroy, for a high-level meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations and military cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting took place at the Special Forces Command (SFC) Headquarters in Entebbe on Friday and was attended by senior officials from both nations.
The French delegation included the French Defence Attaché, Colonel Sébastien Berger, and the Second Counsellor at the French Embassy, Camille Portat.
The Ugandan delegation comprised the UPDF Chief of Joint Staff, Lieutenant General Jack Bakasumba, and the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine Commander, Brigadier General Wycliffe Keita.
In his remarks, Muhoozi reflected on the long-standing partnership between Uganda and France.
"Our collaboration with France has been a cornerstone of Uganda’s defence development. Since 2011, we have engaged closely with French military and diplomatic partners to enhance our operational capabilities and professional training programs,” he said.
Muhoozi further acknowledged France’s support to the UPDF’s mission in Somalia and its contribution to Uganda’s domestic defence readiness.
"France’s assistance in specialized training, particularly in Mountain Warfare, and in offering our officers professional training opportunities at French military institutions, has been invaluable to strengthening our forces,” he said.
Leroy, responding to the CDF, praised the robust bilateral relationship and highlighted the broad scope of cooperation beyond defence.
"Uganda and France share a strong partnership that extends across defence, infrastructure, and critical sectors like water and energy. We remain committed to supporting Uganda’s development goals while enhancing military cooperation,” she said.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to deepen ties and expand collaboration in defence, security, and national development.