By Patriot corps
28th August 2024
Suva, Fiji — Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt Hon Robinah Nabbanja, has successfully delivered an official message from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon Siaosi Sovaleni. The message, delivered during the 53rd Pacific Island Forum Leaders meeting, underscores the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation between Uganda and the Kingdom of Tonga.
During their discussions, Prime Minister Nabbanja conveyed President Museveni’s emphasis on the need for the two nations to collaborate closely in addressing common challenges. The President highlighted that both Uganda and Tonga face similar bottlenecks, particularly in areas such as poverty alleviation, sustainable development, and climate resilience, and that working together would be beneficial for both countries.
The meeting between the two leaders also coincided with the launch of a traditional trade fair, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Tongan people. This event provided a unique opportunity for the Ugandan delegation to engage with Tonga’s local culture and traditions, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni, in his remarks, expressed his government’s current focus on combating poverty among the people of Tonga. He acknowledged the importance of the message from President Museveni and expressed optimism about the potential for increased cooperation between Uganda and Tonga, especially in areas that would directly benefit their citizens.
In a gesture of goodwill and friendship, Prime Minister Nabbanja extended an invitation to her Tongan counterpart to visit Uganda. This invitation is expected to pave the way for future high-level exchanges and joint initiatives aimed at deepening ties between the two Commonwealth nations.
The Kingdom of Tonga, established in 1875, is unique in that it was never colonized, maintaining its sovereignty throughout its history. This strong cultural identity was on full display at the trade fair, which highlighted traditional Tongan crafts, music, and cuisine.
The 53rd Pacific Island Forum Leaders meeting has brought together leaders from across the Commonwealth and the Pacific, providing a platform for discussing pressing issues such as climate change, economic development, and regional security. Uganda’s participation in the forum reflects its commitment to engaging with global partners and addressing shared challenges through international cooperation.
As the forum progresses, both Uganda and Tonga are expected to explore further opportunities for collaboration, building on the foundations laid during this significant meeting.