The 9th session of the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo Joint Permanent Commission has opened in Kampala.
The session opened on Friday and will run until Sunday, May , 10 at Mestil Hotel in Kampala with diplomats and technocrats from both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, regional peace, and economic integration.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the head of the Ugandan delegation, Ambassador John Leonard Mugerwa said the relationship between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo goes beyond diplomacy, describing it as a partnership deeply rooted in history, culture, and shared regional aspirations.
“Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo share not only common borders, but also deep historical, cultural, social, and economic ties that have continued to strengthen over the years,” Mugerwa said.
He noted that relations between the two neighboring countries have remained cordial and productive, guided by mutual respect, good neighborliness, and a shared desire for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Great Lakes region.
“Our relations have remained cordial and productive, guided by mutual respect, good neighborliness, and a shared desire for peace, stability, and prosperity in our region,” he added.
The Joint Permanent Commission, running from May 8 to 10 in Kampala, has brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and technical experts to review the progress of bilateral agreements and explore new areas of cooperation.
Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have long maintained close people-to-people ties, especially among border communities where trade, intermarriage, and cultural exchange have existed for generations. In recent years, cooperation between Kampala and Kinshasa has expanded into infrastructure development, security collaboration, energy, and regional trade.
The two countries have also worked together in efforts to restore peace and stability in eastern DRC through joint security operations targeting armed groups that have long threatened communities and regional security.
Trade between Uganda and the DRC has continued to grow steadily, making Congo one of Uganda’s most important export markets. Cross-border commerce has supported thousands of businesses and households while strengthening regional economic integration.
Speaking on the importance of economic cooperation, Ambassador Mugerwa said the movement of goods, services, and people between the two countries demonstrates the complementary nature of their economies.
“Trade and economic cooperation between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have continued to flourish and remain of immense benefit to both countries,” he said.
“Cross-border commerce has created opportunities for businesses, supported livelihoods, and contributed significantly to regional economic integration.”
He further described the Joint Permanent Commission as a critical platform for resolving challenges and identifying opportunities that can deepen cooperation between the two nations.
“It is important to note that this Joint Permanent Commission provides us with an opportunity to further deepen our bilateral cooperation by candidly discussing areas of mutual interest and identifying practical solutions to any challenges or barriers,” Mugerwa stated.
According to the ambassador, enhanced institutional cooperation will help improve trade facilitation, connectivity, investment promotion, and collaboration in strategic sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, security, and energy.
“Through constructive dialogue and strengthened institutional cooperation, we can enhance trade facilitation, improve connectivity, promote investment, and reinforce collaboration in security, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and other strategic sectors,” he said.
Mugerwa expressed confidence that the Kampala meeting would further strengthen relations between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and advance the common aspirations of their people.
“This meeting is a reflection of our collective commitment to advancing the common aspirations of our peoples and strengthening the bonds between our two nations,” he noted.
“As we commence our discussions, let us remain guided by the spirit of partnership, mutual trust, and shared responsibility in addressing the issues before us for the benefit of our peoples and future generations.”
The three-day session is expected to conclude with renewed commitments and recommendations aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation and regional development.
