The 9th Joint Permanent Commission between Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo has opened in Kampala .
The JPC held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala will run until Sunday, May, 10.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the head of Uganda’s delegation, Amb John Leonard Mugerwa assured the Congolese delegation of Uganda’s continued commitmentto the longstanding friendship and cooperation that exist between the two brotherly countries.
“Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo share not only common borders, but also deep historical, cultural, social, and economic ties that have continued to strengthen over the years. Our relations have remained cordial and productive, guided by mutual respect, good neighborliness, and a shared desire for peace, stability, and prosperity in our region,” Mugerwa said.
He noted that growing interaction between people and institutions stands as testimony to the trust and understanding that characterize the partnership between the two nations.
Mugerwa told the meeting that trade and economic cooperation between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have continued to flourish and remain of immense benefit to both countries.
“Cross-border commerce has created opportunities for businesses, supported livelihoods, and contributed significantly to regional economic integration. The continued movement of goods, services, and people between our countries demonstrates the complementary nature of our economies and the enormous potential that still exists for greater collaboration.”
He said the Joint Permanent Commission provides an opportunity to further deepen our bilateral cooperation by candidly discussing areas of mutual interest and identifying practical solutions to any challenges or barriers that may hinder the full realization of our shared objectives.
“Through constructive dialogue and strengthened institutional cooperation, we can enhance trade facilitation, improve connectivity, promote investment, and reinforce collaboration in security, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and other strategic sectors.”
“This meeting is a reflection of our collective commitment to advancing the common aspirations of our peoples and strengthening the bonds between our two nations. I am confident that the deliberations during this session will yield fruitful outcomes that will further consolidate the excellent relations between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
Relations
Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo have for many years enjoyed cordial relations.
The volume of exports between the two countries has also gone up in the past years surpassing $1 billion (about Shs 3.9 trillion) in the 2024/25 financial year.
This has ensured Kinshasa is Kampala’s most strategic regional export market .
According to the Ministry of Finance, Uganda exported goods worth $964.5 million (approximately Shs 3.76 trillion) to DRC and imported $42.7 million (about Shs 166 billion), leading to a surplus of about $921.8 million (around Shs 3.59 trillion) in Uganda’s favour .
The two countries also cooperate in security and defence affairs, with Ugandan troops currently jointly deployed with FADRC in Eastern Congo under Operation Shuja to hunt for ADF rebels.
Uganda has also embarked on working on roads inside DRC as a strategy to further bolster ties between the two countries but also as a security measure to ensure safety of Ugandan exports destined to her immediate neighbour to the West.
The Joint Permanent Commission is therefore yet another attempt by the two countries to further bolster ties.