In a bold move to reinforce strategic cooperation, Uganda and Ethiopia have signed eight landmark agreements covering a wide range of sectors marking a new chapter in their longstanding diplomatic and economic relations.

The agreements were signed during the fourth session of the Ethiopia-Uganda Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), which concluded in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The meeting, held after a six-year hiatus, served as a crucial platform for the two countries to revive and expand their bilateral cooperation.

Uganda’s delegation was led by Gen. Jeje Odongo, Minister of Foreign Affairs, accompanied by key cabinet ministers including Francis Mwebesa, Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, and Fred Byamukama, Minister of Transport. Ethiopia was represented by Dr. Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs, alongside Dr. Kassahun Gofe, Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, and other senior officials.

Dr. Timothewos lauded the occasion as a pivotal step in strengthening regional solidarity and collaboration. He also emphasized the significance of working together on pressing issues such as regional security, terrorism, and equitable use of the Nile Waters.

On Uganda’s side, Gen. Odongo praised the resilience of the Ethiopia-Uganda relationship despite the long gap since the last JMC session. “This commitment was exemplified in the various high level exchange of visits between Addis Ababa and Kampala including at the highest levels, ongoing bilateral engagements in different sectors, and constant interactions in other regional and international fora,” he noted.

The eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed span critical sectors: air service agreements, industrial development, water resource management, technical cooperation in agriculture, support for the animal industry and fisheries, aviation training, aircraft accident investigation, and trade promotion.

Beyond formal agreements, the ministers from both sides reiterated their governments’ commitment to ensuring effective implementation of the outcomes from the session. They also underscored the importance of enhancing regional cooperation through platforms like IGAD to tackle shared challenges.

With these developments, Ethiopia and Uganda have reaffirmed their position as key regional allies, setting the tone for a more integrated and cooperative East Africa.