The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to respecting Uganda’s sovereignty as both sides celebrated 50 years of diplomatic and development cooperation.
Speaking during the anniversary celebrations held at the residence of the EU Ambassador in Kampala, the European Union Ambassador to Uganda, Jan Sadek, said sovereignty remains the foundation of peace and stability among nations.
“As we celebrate 50 years of the European Union relationship with Uganda, we strongly believe in the sovereignty of every country,” Sadek said.
He referred to countries such as Ukraine, whose sovereignty, he said, had been interfered with, adding that the European Union continues to recognise and respect Ukraine’s national identity and flag.
Sadek also welcomed Uganda’s recently passed Sovereignty Bill, saying every country has a right to independence and self-governance.
“The European Union has no intention whatsoever to interfere with the sovereignty of the Ugandan government,” he said, adding that countries should be governed by laws rather than power.
The ambassador also commended Uganda for its contribution to regional peacekeeping efforts, particularly in Somalia, and for hosting refugees.
He said the European Union would continue supporting Uganda’s role in maintaining regional stability.
“In line with this, the Ugandan government continues to welcome refugees, now close to two million people in total. This is not a minor achievement, and we applaud Uganda for that,” Sadek said.
The celebrations were attended by Uganda’s Vice President, Jessica Alupo, who praised the European Union for its long-standing support towards Uganda’s development.
Alupo said the EU had invested about €6 billion in Uganda in sectors such as health, trade, education, tourism, and infrastructure.
“As a government, we are proud of the partnership and the tangible achievements registered over the years,” she said.
She added that Uganda’s exports to the European market had reached an estimated €1.5 billion, driven largely by coffee, fish, and other agricultural products.
According to Alupo, the growing trade volumes point to a promising future for Uganda’s economy and international trade relations.
Over the years, the European Union has supported Uganda in areas including energy development, disaster response, public health, and cross-border trade.
The minister for General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, Justine Kasule Lumumba, also hailed the partnership, describing the relationship between Uganda and the European Union as meaningful and beneficial to both parties.
“We have had a meaningful relationship, and fortunately, both Ambassador Jan Sadek and Vice President Jessica Alupo have committed themselves to ensuring continued collaboration,” Lumumba said.
She also welcomed the ambassador’s remarks on Uganda’s Sovereignty Bill, describing them as a positive gesture towards strengthening mutual respect between Uganda and the European Union.
