Uganda and Belgium discussed strengthening defence cooperation and regional security during a meeting between Defence Minister Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka and Belgian Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Hugues Chantry.
The Ambassador paid a courtesy call on the Minister at the Joint Defence Headquarters in Mbuya, where discussions focused on Uganda-Belgium defence relations, regional security and Uganda’s peace and stabilisation efforts.
Kiwanuka emphasised the importance of addressing the root causes of conflicts, saying sustainable peace requires security interventions alongside socio-economic transformation and political commitment.
He reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to contributing to peace and stability on the African continent, noting that regional security is critical to Uganda’s national interests and development.
The Minister also called on Belgium to continue supporting the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) to help safeguard gains made in restoring peace and stability in Somalia.
Ambassador Chantry commended Uganda’s contribution to peace efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and other conflict-affected areas, as well as its response to Ebola.
He reaffirmed Belgium’s support for Uganda’s efforts to promote peace and stability across the region.
The Ambassador was accompanied by Col. Michel Recour, outgoing Defence Attaché; Col. Wendy Janssens, incoming Defence Attaché; and 2Lt Eva de Gelder from Brussels.
