MOSCOW, RUSSIA – Uganda and Russia have signed an agreement that will allow holders of diplomatic and service passports from both countries to travel between them without visas.
The agreement was signed in Moscow on the sidelines of the Third Russia–Africa Summit by Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and Hon. Georgy Borisenko, Russia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.
It covers government officials and others travelling on official business and is expected to ease movement between Kampala and Moscow for ministers, diplomats and public servants.
Under the agreement, the two governments seek to strengthen friendly relations and create favourable conditions for official visits. The agreement will enter into force 30 days after both governments complete their internal procedures and notify each other through diplomatic notes.
Russian officials said the review involves several institutions, including the Ministry of Justice, but pledged to expedite the process, citing Moscow’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Kampala.
The signing comes as the two countries seek to broaden their relations beyond diplomacy. During the talks, Russia expressed interest in increasing the visibility of Ugandan coffee and other agricultural products in its market and pledged support for efforts to improve access for Ugandan exports.
The two sides also discussed expanding trade, with officials noting the need to provide private companies with clearer information about business and investment opportunities. The matter could be taken up at the next meeting of the Uganda–Russia Intergovernmental Commission.
Information and communication technology was also identified as an area for collaboration. On education, Russian officials said Uganda receives about 50 government-funded university scholarships annually, with additional Ugandan students studying in Russia through private sponsorship.
Addressing African and Russian foreign ministers in Moscow, Hon. Kasolo invited Russian investment in agro-industrialisation, mineral and energy development, infrastructure and manufacturing.
He noted that Uganda offers investors access to wider regional and continental markets through the East African Community and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Hon. Kasolo emphasised that cooperation between Russia and Africa should be measured by practical results, calling for a clear framework with agreed targets, effective implementation and regular reviews.
“Uganda stands ready to work with the Russian Federation, the African Union and fellow African countries,” he said.
