By Richard Onapatum
KOREA-AFRICA SUMMIT:Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo of Uganda met with Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo this afternoon in Seoul to discuss bilateral relations. Key among the topics was the establishment of a nuclear power plant in Buyende District, Eastern Uganda, aimed at enhancing energy generation.
Vice President Alupo is in Korea representing President Yoweri Museveni at the inaugural Korea-Africa Heads of State Summit, scheduled for June 4-5, 2024. The summit’s theme is “The Future We Make Together: Shared Growth, Sustainability, and Solidarity.”
South Korea has invited all African Heads of State and Government to discuss potential areas of cooperation at this landmark summit. The event is part of President Yoon Suk-Yeol’s strategy to build a mutually beneficial, sustainable, and strategic long-term partnership with Africa, reflecting South Korea’s aspiration to become a Global Pivotal State.
The summit, while promoting business opportunities, emphasizes building stronger bilateral relations. Chung Byung-won, South Korea’s Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, stated that there will be new and enhanced support 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,” he said.
Chung outlined Korea’s investment priorities in Africa, which include creating a conducive environment for Korean companies to collaborate with African counterparts. He noted that South Korea aims to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement and help address trade barriers by supporting the technical rebuild of African customs systems, drawing from Korea’s advanced electronic customs clearance system.
The discussions between VP Alupo and PM Han Duck-Soo signify a step towards a deeper partnership between Uganda and South Korea, particularly in energy generation and broader economic cooperation.