Uganda, China seek more ties to fight terror
Gen. Guanglie.
China’s Defence Minister Gen. Liang Guanglie yesterday held talks with Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi to discuss relations between the two countries, especially, on defence and Uganda’s contribution to the war on terror.
Prime Minister Mbabazi acknowledged China’s continued contribution towards Uganda’s development and said Chinese-Uganda relations would continue to remain strong.
“China has been instrumental in giving direct support to Uganda in the war on terror in Somalia as well as in the war against the Lord’s Resistance Army,” Mr Mbabazi said.
Gen. Guanglie arrived in Uganda at the weekend for a five-day state visit and is accompanied by a high powered delegation of China’s top military generals.
Uganda becomes the second stop for Gen. Guanglie and his delegation that is conducting an African tour. So far, Gen. Guanglie has visited Ghana and will later visit the Seychelles after Uganda. China gives close to 46 per cent of its foreign aid to Africa.
Bigger share
Uganda is one of the bigger beneficiaries especially in the areas of defence and infrastructural development. Uganda received over $5 million annually from the Chinese government although this figure is set to increase.
“We continue to encourage Chinese investment in Uganda, which has now become a catchment country for the region,” Mr Mbabazi added. The bulk of China’s aid to Uganda is in the form of non-concessional loans. Sectors that have benefited most include: transport and business related services, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Gen Guanglie thanked the Prime Minister for the warm reception the delegation has received and pledged China’s commitment to continue development cooperation with Uganda.
China continues to provide development assistance to Uganda through interest-free loans and grants.
