The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, held discussions with the Honorary Consul of the Syrian Arab Republic, Dr. Tamouh Moustafa, at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Mbuya.
The bilateral engagement focused on strengthening diplomatic cooperation and evaluating ongoing international efforts to restore peace and stability in the Middle East.
Minister Kiwanuka reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to international peace-support operations, emphasizing that the nation's foreign policy remains anchored in non-alignment and non-interference.
He noted that Uganda maintains balanced relationships globally without aligning with Eastern or Western power blocs.
Addressing concerns over Uganda’s planned military deployment under the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Gaza, Hon. Kiwanuka stressed that the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) will operate strictly as neutral peacekeepers.
“Our business in Gaza is peacekeeping. We are not taking sides, and we do not comment on partisan views. Our hope is that we will be welcomed by all parties since we are here to support all of you,” Hon. Kiwanuka said.
He highlighted that Middle East stability carries direct economic benefits for Uganda, citing the presence of over 500 Syrian nationals who reside in the country and contribute to local commerce.
The Minister cautioned that global insecurity creates economic ripple effects, making regional stability a collective interest for all nations.
Dr. Tamouh Moustafa commended the Ugandan government for its peacekeeping contributions across regional and global theaters.
Dr. Moustafa expressed Syria's appreciation for Uganda's neutral diplomatic posture and supported joint efforts to foster trade, stability, and mutual development.
The meeting was attended by senior defense officials, including the Under Secretary for Finance and Administration, Mrs. Edith Buturo, and the Director of Legal Affairs, Maj. Gen. Kagoro.
