President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Liu Guozhong, the Special Representative of China’s President Xi Jinping, engaged in discussions aimed at promoting prosperity in both Uganda and other developing countries. Guozhong, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the Vice Premier of the State Council, represented Jinping at the recently concluded 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G-77+ China Summits.
During a sideline meeting on Saturday at the Munyonyo Convention Centre, Museveni expressed gratitude to China for its historical support during the anti-colonial struggle and acknowledged its pivotal role in bolstering Africa’s economic development since gaining independence.
“We have been together in the anti-colonial struggle. China supported us when we were fighting for independence and the freedom fighting groups in Southern Africa,” Museveni stated, recalling China’s assistance to countries such as Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Museveni highlighted China’s early economic support, dating back to 1964 when Zhou Enlai visited East Africa, initiating projects like the Tanzania-Zambia railway. He commended China’s continued economic growth and its positive impact on Africa.
The President stressed the importance of balanced value-added trade and urged China to open its market to African products. Emphasizing market access as a mutually beneficial strategy, Museveni stated, “China should open their markets to African products. It is a very easy way of how to help one another for mutual benefit.”
Guozhong conveyed greetings from President Xi Jinping and commended Uganda’s economic and social development under Museveni’s leadership. He recalled China’s decision in 1949 to develop relations with African countries, supporting their struggle for independence and liberation from imperialism.
Expressing confidence in the enduring cooperation between China and African nations, Guozhong affirmed China’s support for Uganda in opposing external interference. He assured that China would advocate for Uganda’s sovereignty on international platforms.
Acknowledging Uganda’s successful hosting of the NAM summit, Guozhong pledged China’s support and expressed optimism about delivering significant benefits to African countries through joint efforts.
Highlighting the vision for market access, Guozhong revealed that China has granted zero tariffs on 98% of taxable items from Uganda, fostering increased trade collaboration. He emphasized China’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s national development through medical aid, cultural exchanges, youth programs, and educational opportunities for Ugandan students in China.
The meeting was attended by State Minister of International Affairs Henry Okello Oryem and Adonia Ayebare, Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
