Uganda, China sign new defence pact during Gen. Kainerugaba visit

Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF), Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, held a high-level talk with his Chinese counterpart Gen Liu Zhenli, culminating in the signing of a new bilateral military agreement.  

The meeting took place at the Chinese military headquarters in Beijing, China.

The new bilateral military agreement is expected to boost cooperation in training, military education, and technology transfer.

Gen Kainerugaba, who is also the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, was received by Gen Liu , the Chief of the Joint Staff Department of China's Central Military Commission.

Following official military welcome ceremonies, the two generals led their delegations in private discussions focused on areas of mutual strategic interest.

Gen Kainerugaba, who is also the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, was received by Gen Liu , the Chief of the Joint Staff Department of China's Central Military Commission. (Courtesy Photos)

A release from The Directorate of Communications is for the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) revealed Gen Kainerugaba and his counterpart reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the longstanding military partnership between their two nations’ militaries.

The Ugandan delegation included Maj Gen Dan Kakono, the artillery division commander and Maj Gen Felix Busizoori, the 4th infantry division commander. 

They met with a senior Chinese delegation comprising top military generals and officers from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Central to the discussions were key pillars of the existing relationship, including advanced military training, peace support operations, and enhanced Defence diplomacy.

The talks culminated in the two generals presiding over the signing of a landmark bilateral military agreement. 

The pact aims to solidify defence cooperation, paving the way for increased exchanges in professional military education, joint training exercises, and technology transfer.
Gen. Kainerugaba arrived in Beijing, China, on Tuesday, for high-level military engagements.

On Wednesday, the CDF and his delegation visited China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC), a Chinese state-owned defence company with a core business in aviation products and technology.

The CDF was taken on a guided tour of the cutting-edge technology in various aviation equipment by the Vice President of the facility.

Meanwhile, Gen Kainerugaba’s official visit coincides with the 12th edition of the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, a major security conference that brings together defence officials and military experts from around the world to discuss global security issues.