Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Jeje Odongo, joined global leaders at the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he spoke on a panel titled “Connecting Africa: A Prospect for Continental Integration.”
The three-day forum, running from April 11 to 13, brought together diplomats, policymakers, and researchers to address key global and regional challenges.
During the session, Hon. Odongo emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, trade networks, and digital connectivity across Africa.
He stressed the importance of value addition in production, attracting foreign direct investment, and integrating more Africans into the formal economy.
He also underscored the potential of a unified continental market in driving sustainable development.
On the sidelines of the forum, Hon. Odongo met with several counterparts to strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties:
- With Venezuela: He held discussions with H.E. Yvangil Pinto, Venezuela’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, on deepening bilateral relations. They agreed to pursue cooperation agreements and prepare for the upcoming Uganda-Venezuela Joint Permanent Commission meeting in September 2025. Both also reaffirmed mutual support on global platforms, particularly Uganda’s upcoming chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement.
- With Slovakia: In a meeting with H.E. Jurai Blanar, Slovak Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, both sides committed to establishing a framework for cooperation and enhancing collaboration in international forums.
- With Kenya: Hon. Odongo met with Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister to reaffirm commitment to Uganda-Kenya ties. Their talks focused on joint efforts for peace in South Sudan, Sudan, and eastern DRC, advocating for African-led conflict resolution strategies within the East African Community.
- With Rwanda: Bilateral talks with H.E. Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, centered on regional peace and security. Both ministers highlighted the importance of collaborative approaches to addressing emerging regional challenges.
- With UN Technology Bank: Hon. Odongo also conferred with Mr. Deodat Maharaj, Managing Director of the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries. They explored potential partnerships to advance science, technology, and innovation initiatives in Uganda.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum, hosted annually by the Turkish government, serves as a platform for global dialogue on pressing international issues. This year’s edition marks its fourth consecutive gathering in the city of Antalya.
