Uganda and Norway agree to enhance economic cooperation
A release from the ministry states that the minister pointed out that the volume of trade between the two countries remains low, with Uganda's exports to Norway valued at $1 million in 2024 and imports from Norway totalling about $6 million.
Delegates from Norway and Uganda pose for a group photo after the meeting. (Courtesy)
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Uganda and Norway delegations have concluded a one-day bilateral consultation meeting, with both sides agreeing to enhance cooperation and boost investment and trade between the two countries.
The meeting, co-chaired by John Mulimba, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Mr Asmund Grover Aukrust, Norwegian Minister for International Cooperation, was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Kampala.
The meeting on Thursday (March 26) focused on economic cooperation, regional peace and security, and multilateral relations.
During discussions, Mulimba acknowledged Norway's longstanding support for Uganda's development initiatives, particularly in education, renewable energy, and women's empowerment programs.
A release from the ministry states that the minister pointed out that the volume of trade between the two countries remains low, with Uganda's exports to Norway valued at $1 million in 2024 and imports from Norway totalling about $6 million.
He stressed the need for both countries to work together and improve these figures.
Mr Asmund Grover Aukrust, Norwegian Minister for International Cooperation. (Courtesy)
Mr Asmund Grover Aukrust lauded relations between Uganda and Norway over the years, and cooperation at multilateral levels, having worked together in various areas of interest, including peace-building initiatives in the region. He commended Uganda's exemplary refugee hosting policy, given the country’s location in a volatile region.
The discussions also addressed regional peace and security, noting Uganda’s contribution to various peace initiatives in the region. They emphasised the importance of dialogue in conflict resolution, involving all stakeholders to achieve sustainable peace.
The delegations concurred on the need for United Nations reforms to reflect contemporary realities if it is to address pressing global challenges.
They also agreed to convene the Norway-Uganda Trade and Investment Summit before the end of 2027, with a view to attracting Norwegian investment in Uganda and bolstering bilateral trade.
Mr Asmund's team included Ms Tone Tinnas, Ambassador of Norway to Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and the Comoros; Mr Kyrre Holm, Director for Africa in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Mr Andre Stiansen, Norwegian Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa.