Ambassador Kiyonga hosts Uganda independence celebrations in Beijing, China

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Chrispus Kiyonga hosted celebrations to mark the Country’s 55th Independence anniversary on 9th October 2017 at his official residence in Beijing, China.

The celebrations under the theme “Uganda’s Freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hardwork, resilience and commitment” showcased Uganda’s beauty as a tourist destination displaying various sites, features and cultural performances.Uganda’s coffee was also promoted by giving out as gifts to the guests’ packets of fine/roasted coffee.

China’s Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mr. Chen Xiaodong was the guest of honour at the function attended by several China government officials, ambassadors and diplomats accredited to China, Chinese investors in Uganda and a cross section of Ugandan diaspora including students living in Beijing.

In his remarks, Amb.Kiyonga noted that, although Uganda went through a period of instability and turmoil after attaining Independence, the country has since 1986 under the leadership of H.E Yoweri Museveni experienced stability, peace and steady economic and social development.He emphasised that further progress is closely tied to regional and continental cooperation and

He emphasised that further progress is closely tied to regional and continental cooperation and intergration in Africa as well as world peace and common prosperity in the world. Kiyonga Informed his listeners that the East African community, plus the Common Market for East and Central Africa (COMESA) constitute a common trading block with a population of about 480 million people. He, therefore, invited more Chinese investors to come to Uganda and take advantage of the large and growing market. Kiyonga also indicated that East African community member states now have a common visa.

Ambassador Kiyonga revealed that Uganda has significantly benefited from the initiative of the Forum on China Africa Cooperation ( FOCAC) and expressed gratitude to the people and government of the People’s Republic of China in this regard.

Kiyonga underscoredUganda’s desire to lift its relationship with the People’s Republic of China to a “Strategic Comprehensive and Cooperative Partnership on a win-win basis”.

END.