Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Iraq has invited Uganda to be part of their Road Development Project aimed at linking the Asian country to Europe. Uganda would participate by acquiring space in the strategically located industrial zones along the network.
Ghazi Ktab, Director of the Africa Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iraq made the offer when he recently met Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uganda, Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Kampala.
During the meeting, Ktab informed Gen. Odongo about Iraq’s ambitious Road Development Project, a strategic initiative aimed at connecting Asia to Europe through an extensive network of railways, roads, ports, and cities. The project will link the Grand Faw Port in southern Iraq to Turkey’s border, extending further into Europe. Iraq has already signed a memorandum of understanding with Turkey, Qatar, and the UAE to undertake this monumental project.
This invitation presents an opportunity for Uganda to enhance its industrial capacity and establish a stronger presence in the region.
This meeting marks the first consultative dialogue between Uganda and Iraq, aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations and exploring avenues for mutual cooperation.
Ktab conveyed that with the resurgence of Iraq after the end of the war, the country is poised to play a significant role in promoting peace and security in the Middle East.
Gen. Odongo who was flanked by Amb. Phillip Odida, Director for Regional and International Political Affairs, welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of building a consistent and mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations. He highlighted that as members of the global south, Uganda and Iraq share similar aspirations and challenges, making it crucial to establish a partnership grounded in common understanding and goals.