Minister Kutesa meets foreign envoys

By Vision reporter

Foreign Affairs Minister Sam Kutesa Thursday met several ambassadors accredited to Uganda with whom they discussed the Anti-homosexuality law recently assented to by the President.

According to a press release from the ministry, Kutesa’s visitors included Alain Hanssen (Belgium), ambassador Urban Andersson (Sweden), ambassador Scott DeLisi (US), Thorbjørn Gaustadsæther of Norway, ambassador Alphons Hennekens (Netherlands) and Dan Frederiksen (Denmark).

The press release about the meeting reads: “The Minister of Foreign Affairs today met Ambassadors of Belgium, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and the US to discuss the anti-homosexuality law recently assented by His Excellency the President.

“They all expressed their governments’ objection of the passing of the Bill.

“However, there was consensus from the ambassadors that they continue to value the partnership with Uganda and far-reaching decisions will not be taken in haste as they continue to engage the Ugandan Government on the issue.

“The ambassadors were mindful that they do not want ordinary people to suffer as a result development assistance cuts, as they are closely observing the implications of the Law.

“Kutesa reiterated the President’s position on the law but emphasized that its intention is not to discriminate, harass or witch-hunt homosexuals but prohibit the promotion and exhibition of homosexuality in Uganda. The minister added that “we should examine this issue in a cool and rational manner”, with continued engagement as a way forward.”