“You are a very popular African leader, the people of Russia respect you,” Russian delegation tells Museveni
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has received a special invitation to virtually participate in the Primakov Readings International Forum, to be held in Moscow-Russia from November 27-28, 2023.
Primakov Readings International Forum brings together decision-makers and representatives of various think tanks and universities from over 30 countries to engage in an intensive debate on current and future global challenges.
The invitation was extended to President Museveni on Monday, October 2, at State House Entebbe by a delegation from Russia led by Yukhnin Ergeny. Other members of the delegation included Shatalora Alina and Yukhnina Anastasiia.
The meeting was also attended by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs Janet Museveni.
The delegation requested President Museveni to be a special speaker at the panel discussion on ‘Russia-Africa: From Program Directives to Practical Results’.
Yukhnin informed Museveni that Russian people hold him in high esteem and respect.
“You are a very popular African leader, the people of Russia respect you, so they want to hear your words of wisdom,” Yukhnin said.
The President readily accepted to participate virtually in the conference whose theme is Post Globalization Horizons, saying that there is a lot in common between Africa and Russia.
“We are freedom fighters, and the Communist Party supported us in our fight against colonialism,” he noted.
In the same meeting, President Museveni discussed with his guests the possibility of attracting Russian investors to Uganda.
“Uganda has a good climate. It is one of the three places in the world that has a unique climate because of the high altitude, the others being Ecuador in South America and some parts of Kenya. I am enjoying this good weather here, let others also come and enjoy,” he said.
Yukhnin informed the President that they are interested in building a pharmaceutical factory in Uganda that will manufacture drugs. He added that they also want to put up a fertiliser plant and another modern technology factory for agro-processing, especially for drying fruits.
The guests also told the President of their interest in mineral processing as well as in the area of tourism.
On the other hand, Yukhnin on behalf of the delegation said they were marvelled by the beauty of Uganda, especially the country’s fauna and flora as well as the hospitality of Ugandans.
Present at the meeting were finance minister Matia Kasaija, agriculture minister Frank Tumwebaze, state minister for privatisation and investment, Evelyn Anite, Permanent Secretary in the health ministry, Dr Diana Atwine, and other senior government officials.
