Museveni commends EU-Uganda solidarity
Ugandan leader H.E Yoweri Museveni joined hundreds of guests to celebrate and mark the European Union's 60th anniverasary at a reception hosted by EU Head of Delegation to Uganda, H.E Ambassador Kristian Schmidt on Europe Day---Tuesday, 9th May 2017.
President Museveni used the occassion to commend the EU for its solidarity with the people of Uganda and stated that the EU remains a loyal partner, helping the country on its development path. In his remarks, Mr Museveni said the future of Africa and Europe will remain bright as long as opportunities that exist between the two continents are tapped into. He added that Africa and Europe's relations should be based on pportunities that are available in Investments, Trade and Tourism.
Ambassador Schmidt emphasised the importance of Europe and Africa working together. He said Europe is a key partner supporting Africa's security.
"We sponsor more than 80% of the AU’s programme budget. We back African-led Peace Support Operations, with more than €1.7 billion since 2004. We fund the Burundi mediation efforts, and the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) with more than €1.3 billion over the last ten years," he said, and added: "And we create opportunities. Already today, the EU is Africa’s 1st foreign investor, the first trading partner, and Africa’s first source of remittances. At the Africa-EU Summit in November, we will seek to boost responsible and sustainable investments in Africa, as part of the proposed External Investment Plan."
Amb. Schmidt also used his address, to request three special wishes he said the EU would like to see Uganda grant.
"First, that you do not let your democratic process stall or regress, and that those in power do not close their minds to minority views, even when their marginalization and despair leads them to express their disagreement with frustration and anger. We prey you keep the political space open. Second, that the security forces become increasingly accountable to the people they serve, and less frequently the source of violations of their rights. We prey you consider that, ultimately, security does not come from a gun. And thirdly, that you succeed in taking care of the country’s youth, and give them real opportunities, in a fair and equitable society, where young girls, for instance, are free from the scourge of unwanted teen pregnancies. We make those wishes as friends and partners, and because we wish you so very well," he said.
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