22 July 2008
Uganda Government has called for increased bilateral trade with France not only to build and boost regional markets but also realise balanced and sustainable trade between the two countries.
Addressing the gathering at French ambassador's residence in Kampala last week during France's Independence Day celebrations, Internal minister Dr Ruhakana Rugunda said trade investment between France and Uganda still remains low.
"The volume of trade and investment remains very low and needs deliberate efforts to boost it. This will increase balanced and sustainable trade between our respective countries," Dr Rugunda said.
Dr Rugunda acknowledged the cooperation premised on equitable trade and private sector investments that provide sustainable basis for mutually beneficial relations.
"We therefore salute the role played by French companies in the Ugandan economy such as Total in energy industry, Alcatel in the telecommunications industry and AGS movers in the international removals industry" the minister said.
French ambassador Rene Forceville pledged more military support to the Ugandan Government that will help improve skills of Uganda People's Defense Forces.
"In accordance with the emphasis put on the issue of peace and stability, the French Army is continuing its pledge of peace support operations training with UPDF. The third edition of training of the Somalia bound men was concluded recently, on June 20 in Singo, and another training of the same kind will be conducted in Singo before the end of this year, French ambassador said.
The ambassador said France and the European Union treasure East African regional integration that should exist on principles of unity, democracy, innovations and attentive to the needs of the less privileged.
"Always remember that we are behind all your efforts towards building a strong East African Community. We believe that this community will lead to prosperity and stability for all," Mr Forceville said.
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