By Richard Onapatum
SEOUL, South Korea — This Sunday morning, Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo joined Christians at the Shinshengei Church in Seoul, South Korea, for a session of praise and worship. Alupo, representing President Yoweri Museveni at the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit, engaged with the local Christian community ahead of the high-profile event.
The first-ever Korea-Africa Summit, scheduled for June 4-5, 2024, is themed: “The Future We Make Together: Shared Growth, Sustainability, and Solidarity.” South Korea invited all African Heads of State and Government to discuss and pitch their preferred forms of cooperation.
This summit underscores South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol’s dedication to fostering a mutually beneficial, sustainable, and strategic long-term partnership with Africa, aligning with South Korea’s vision of becoming a Global Pivotal State. However, a significant focus will be on exploring business opportunities.
Speaking to African journalists in Seoul ahead of the summit, Chung Byung-won, South Korea’s Deputy Minister for Political Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hinted at significant new developments for Africa. “Korea is willing not only to increase the quantity but also the quality and efficacy of its assistance to Africa. To this end, it provides tailored support to meet the needs and conditions of each African nation,” Chung stated.
He elaborated on South Korea’s investment priorities in Africa, emphasizing the establishment of a conducive environment for Korean companies to collaborate seamlessly with their African counterparts. Additionally, South Korea aims to leverage the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement to overcome trade barriers by supporting the technical rebuilding of African customs systems, mimicking its efficient Korean electronic customs clearance system.
This strategic focus on improving customs systems is part of South Korea’s broader goal to enhance trade efficacy and foster deeper economic ties with African nations. Chung added, “By enhancing the trade infrastructure, we aim to facilitate smoother business operations and increased economic exchange between Korea and Africa.”
Vice President Alupo’s participation in the prayers and her role at the summit highlight Uganda’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and exploring new avenues for development and cooperation. The Korea-Africa Summit promises to be a landmark event, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration and shared growth between South Korea and African nations.
The summit is expected to pave the way for substantial economic and diplomatic engagements, driving forward the agenda of shared prosperity and sustainable development. Leaders from both continents will work together to forge a future of mutual benefit and solidarity.
