Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, took part in a panel discussion during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey. The panel focused on the theme "Connecting Africa: A Prospect for Continental Integration."
Odongo highlighted the need for increased connectivity across Africa, emphasising the importance of infrastructure, trade, and digital links. He also addressed the challenges and opportunities of African integration, stressing the significance of uplifting citizens into the money economy, adding value to production, attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and creating a unified continental market.
On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Odongo met with Yvangil Pinto, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. Their discussions centred on enhancing bilateral relations, particularly through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in various fields. They also looked ahead to the Uganda-Venezuela Joint Permanent Commission scheduled for September 2025 and shared perspectives on global issues, including Uganda’s leadership within the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
In separate talks with Jurai Blanar, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Affairs of Slovakia, Odongo agreed to strengthen bilateral ties between Uganda and Slovakia. They also discussed establishing a framework for cooperation and collaboration in international forums.
Regionally, Odongo met with Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to enhancing Uganda-Kenya relations, with a focus on regional peace efforts, particularly in South Sudan, Sudan, and eastern DRC. They committed to rallying East African Community (EAC) partners to support African-led solutions for sustainable peace.
Additionally, Odongo met with Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs. Their discussions revolved around strengthening bilateral relations and tackling emerging regional challenges to ensure long-term peace and security.
Lastly, the Minister met Deodat Maharaj, Managing Director of the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries. They explored opportunities for collaboration, especially in capacity building and the implementation of Science, Technology, and Innovation projects in Uganda.