Dar es Salaam has today hosted the opening of the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) meeting between the United Republic of Tanzania and the Republic of Uganda, reaffirming the enduring diplomatic ties and growing cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
The meeting was officially opened by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of Tanzania, Ambassador Samwel Shelukindo, who underscored the significance of the forum as a strategic platform for strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across various sectors.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Shelukindo emphasized that the Joint Permanent Commission provides an important opportunity for both countries to engage in constructive dialogue, review the progress of existing collaborations, and identify new areas of partnership that can further benefit the people of both nations.
He noted that the meeting reflects the continued commitment of Tanzania and Uganda to deepen their longstanding relations and enhance cooperation for shared prosperity.
On the Ugandan side, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bagiire Vincent Waiswa, expressed appreciation for the commitment and strong cooperation demonstrated by Tanzania through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs in fostering the bilateral partnership.
He highlighted that the relationship between Tanzania and Uganda extends beyond formal diplomacy, describing it as a brotherly bond that has also flourished in various sectors including energy, trade, and economic development.
According to him, such cooperation has continued to create meaningful opportunities and mutual benefits for both countries.
Diplomatic relations between Tanzania and Uganda date back several decades and were firmly rooted in the vision of the founding leaders of the two nations, notably Julius Nyerere and Milton Obote.
Their leadership laid the foundation for a relationship built on solidarity, mutual respect, and regional cooperation.
Over the years, the two countries have continued to collaborate closely on political, economic, and social matters while also playing an important role in maintaining peace and stability within the East African region.
Meanwhile, the Director of the Africa Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of Tanzania, Ambassador Ally Bujiku, noted that the Joint Permanent Commission serves as a vital mechanism for reviewing the status of bilateral relations and assessing the implementation of previously agreed areas of cooperation.
He added that the platform enables both sides to discuss emerging issues, address challenges in the implementation of agreements, and chart a forward looking path for strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The Joint Permanent Commission meeting is scheduled to run for two days and will conclude tomorrow, March 13, in Dar es Salaam, bringing together officials from both countries to further advance their shared agenda of cooperation and development.
