The transfer of a fleet of vehicles to the state minister for Works, Muca Ecweru, marked a significant collaboration between Uganda and China at the ministry headquarters in Kampala.
Expressing his gratitude during the handover, Ecweru praised China for consistently supporting and collaborating with the Ugandan government. He highlighted the brotherly support from the Chinese government, especially in hosting forthcoming summits. Ecweru appreciated China’s approach, emphasizing that their partnership doesn’t impose outrageous conditions, respecting the values of both nations.
The minister underscored the success of joint programs with Chinese counterparts, emphasizing that collaboration between Uganda and China is set to strengthen further in the future partnerships. “A lot is expected of us and you in partnerships we are to undertake in the years to come,” he noted.
Zhang Lizhong, the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, assured continued support, stating that the provided vehicles would aid Uganda in successfully hosting the G77 and NAM summits. The ambassador expressed China’s unwavering support, adding that two teams of experts would be dispatched to Uganda to train drivers and technicians and provide maintenance services for the vehicles.
Lizhong believes that these summits will contribute to the solidarity and development of developing countries, enhancing Uganda’s influence in international affairs.
Vincent Bagiire, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the excellent bilateral relations between Uganda and China, which have spanned over 60 years. He pointed out that the fleet of 70 vehicles complements the 70 previously donated by China in preparation for the third South Summit, postponed due to the Covid pandemic. Bagiire explained that the new fleet resulted from a cooperative model under the Global Development Initiative, with Uganda procuring an additional 30 similar vehicles.
