Kampala, Uganda: Uganda and the Republic of Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, with both countries pledging to expand cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, technology, education and digital innovation.
The development came on Tuesday, July 7, as Uganda’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, received copies of the Letters of Credence from H.E. Lee Sang-ho, the new Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Korea to Uganda.
The diplomatic ceremony marked the beginning of Ambassador Lee’s official mission in Uganda and underscored the two countries’ shared ambition to broaden cooperation across key sectors driving economic transformation.
Hon. Kasolo congratulated Ambassador Lee on his appointment and welcomed him to Uganda, reaffirming Kampala’s commitment to strengthening the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
The Minister said Uganda values its partnership with the Republic of Korea and is keen to deepen collaboration in political, economic, and socio-cultural affairs. He noted that the relationship has continued to grow over the years and expressed confidence that Ambassador Lee’s tenure would further enhance cooperation.
Korea eyes stronger economic partnership
Ambassador Lee thanked the Government of Uganda for the warm reception and pledged to work towards strengthening bilateral relations during his tour of duty. He identified agriculture, trade, investment and education as priority areas where both countries could deepen cooperation for mutual benefit.
The Ambassador said South Korea remains committed to supporting Uganda’s development aspirations while promoting stronger commercial and people-to-people relations.
Hon. Kasolo used the meeting to encourage increased Korean investment in Uganda, particularly in digital innovation, technology transfer and agro-processing. He said stronger collaboration in technology would create employment opportunities for Uganda’s youthful population while accelerating the country’s digital transformation agenda.
The Minister also called for increased Korean investment in value addition, particularly within rural communities where agriculture remains the backbone of household incomes.
“Uganda is ready to deepen partnerships that create jobs, promote innovation and support sustainable economic growth,” Kasolo noted during the meeting.
He further appealed for greater access to the Korean market for Ugandan exports. Kasolo specifically highlighted coffee, fresh produce and other agricultural products, saying improved market access would boost export earnings and create more opportunities for local farmers and agro-processors.
Uganda has been pursuing diversification of its export markets as part of broader government efforts to increase foreign exchange earnings and reduce reliance on traditional destinations.
Uganda and the Republic of Korea have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, cooperating in sectors including education, health, infrastructure, agriculture and human resource development.
South Korea has supported various development initiatives in Uganda through institutions such as the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), focusing on capacity building, rural development, public health and vocational training.
Officials from both governments expressed optimism that the appointment of Ambassador Lee would further strengthen bilateral ties and unlock new opportunities for investment, technology transfer and economic cooperation.
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