Fallen Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi, left, shakes hands with Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, right, at State House in Entebbe, Uganda July 12, 2023 (PHOTO/Courtesy)
KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Iranian Ambassador to Uganda, Majid Saffar, has assured that the bilateral partnership between Uganda and Iran will continue uninterrupted despite the tragic death of President Raisi. The Iranian President passed away while on duty in a mountainous region, along with all his Foreign Minister and other officials.
Ambassador Saffar made the remarks during a Media Workshop 2024 held at the Cultural Consulate of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran on Wednesday, 22nd May 2024.
“The bilateral partnership between Uganda and Iran is strong and will continue to grow,” Ambassador Saffar said. “We will follow through on the agreements made between our countries, and we are committed to deepening our cooperation in various sectors, including trade, agriculture, and infrastructure development.”
In 2023, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi paid a historic visit to Uganda to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation.
The visit marked a significant milestone in the two nations’ relations, with several key agreements and commitments made.
During the visit, President Raisi and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni held high-level talks, focusing on trade, energy, agriculture, and technology.
The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation and trade between their countries, with Iran pledging support for Uganda’s oil refinery project.
The agreement sought to enhance economic and political ties between Iran and Uganda.
The two nations also agreed to expand relations in politics, society, science, and technology, exchanging experiences in areas like energy, oil, and technology.
In addition, the two countries committed to cooperating in agriculture, fisheries, animal health, and livestock production.
A Joint Permanent Commission was established to strengthen the framework for ongoing collaboration.
Furthermore, the two nations agreed to visa exemptions for citizens of both countries, facilitating travel and cultural exchange.
President Raisi’s visit marked a significant step forward in Iran-Uganda relations, paving the way for increased cooperation and mutual benefit.
Ambassador Saffar said the tragic loss, both countries are committed to continuing their cooperation, ensuring that the bilateral relationship remains strong and beneficial to both nations.
Meanwhile, the Ambassador also reiterated Iran’s support for Palestine’s self-determination and called for an end to Israel’s illegal occupation.
“The Palestinian people have the right to make their own decisions and determine their own future,” Ambassador Saffar said. “We will continue to support their struggle for self-determination and an end to the illegal occupation.”
Dr. Aisha Nakiwala Sembatya, the Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University, facilitated the training.
She urged Ugandan journalists to localize the conflict between Israel and Palestine for a Ugandan audience, emphasizing the importance of contextualizing international issues for local relevance.
She also stressed the need for journalists to maintain objectivity and avoid being manipulated by foreign media.
President Museveni is expected to pay tribute to the late Iranian President at the Iranian Embassy in Kampala today, demonstrating Uganda’s commitment to the bilateral partnership.
The President’s visit will also serve as a gesture of solidarity with the Iranian government and people during this difficult time.
