Both countries have been undergoing process to normalize relations that experienced setbacks since 2017.
At the time, Rwanda accused Uganda of illegal detention of Rwandans and working with groups intending to threaten Rwanda’s security.
Meanwhile, Uganda also accused Rwanda of sending spies to the country.
Ugandan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen Jeje Odongo has said that what unites Rwanda and Uganda is more significant than what divides them.
He said that the closeness of both countries, interactions between people and mutual support during liberation struggles should be much valued to set aside differences.
“We are brothers and sisters. Indeed, there have been some difficulties but with the consensus reached by our leaders, progress has been made in normalizing relations. I am confident that through joint efforts, our excellent relations will continue to flourish in the years ahead,” said Gen Odongo.
He explained that trade between both countries has registered a good progress but stressed the need to do more to rebound trade volumes to the desired levels.
“In respect to trade, we are noticing a rebound in the trade exchanges between the two countries. However, the volumes of trade have not yet reached the desired levels. Given the potential that exists, we must exert all efforts to promote mutually beneficial trade,” said Gen Odongo.
“The infrastructural challenges and non – tariff barriers that affect the smooth flow of goods and services, limits free movement of persons need to be addressed,” he added.
He welcomed the acceptance of the designation of Uganda Airlines by the Rwanda authorities, which will lead to its commencing of direct flights from their hub in Entebbe to Kigali.
Gen Odongo emphasized that it will further boost trade, enhance connectivity, and contribute to strengthen people-to-people exchanges.
Minister Burundi said that bilateral relations have reached a commendable step and expressed optimism that pending issues will be addressed.
“Despite some challenges in our relationship in recent years, I am pleased to note that, under the leadership of our respective Heads of State, we have made progress in restoring our bilateral ties. This meeting is a demonstration of our shared commitment to finding solutions to the issues that have arisen between our two countries,” he stated.
“Now, we must build on this positive momentum and continue to work together to address the remaining challenges. This will require a sustained commitment from both sides, a willingness to listen to each other’s concerns, and a determination to find solutions that are mutually acceptable,” added Dr. Biruta.
Efforts to restore Rwanda, Uganda relations took formal shape following different visits to Rwanda of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni who served as the Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations and Commander of Land Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
The visits yielded good results and saw Gatuna border reopened but a lot more need to be done to improve trade exchanges to a desired extent that existed before setbacks.
There are Rwandans who express concerns over the lack of some agricultural products from Uganda on Rwanda’s market.
During the meeting, both countries are expected to sign Memoranda of Understanding in areas of mutual interests.
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