October 13, 2006
Posted to the web October 13, 2006
The Joint Permanent Commission meeting between the governments of Rwanda and Uganda kicked off yesterday, with both delegations urging for openness and focused deliberations. In their opening speeches, the Foreign Minister, Dr Charles Murigande and his Ugandan counterpart, Sam Kutesa, underscored the need for both countries to embark on forging substantive mechanisms geared towards resolving various issues that affect both countries' bilateral relations. Top on the agenda of the two-day meeting underway at the Prime Minister's Office Conference Hall in Kimihurura is Security along the two countries' common borders, refugees, asylum seekers, trade and commerce, agriculture, public service, health, education and justice.
Murigande said Rwanda acknowledged the historic bond existing between the new neighboring states.
He said it is such links that compel both governments to make peace even in the face of serious bilateral challenges.
It is in this spirit that President Paul Kagame recently led a big team of former students of Ntare school (in Uganda) to grace its Golden Jubilee celebrations with President Yoweri Museveni (of Uganda), Murigande said, in reference to Kagame's trip to the school on September 30.
He called for the implementation of previous recommendations reached during the last JPC meeting held in Kampala, Uganda from July 4 - 5, 2005.
Murigande said the government was convinced that the two countries can achieve much in recovering and developing their relations if only realistic timeframes can be set and respected, make regular assessment of the progress, and establish effective and efficient monitoring mechanisms as well as reinforcing the Joint Technical Committee (JTC).
On his part, Kutesa said it was high time both countries forgot their past differences, and concentrated on promoting areas of mutual cooperation.
He said the historic relations between both countries were growing even stronger as Rwanda is expected to join the East African Community (EAC) soon.
I am happy to note that the process for Rwanda to join the EAC is progressing well, Kutesa said.
He said the creation of the bloc would enhance economies of scale, which would make the region a more attractive investment and tourist destination as well as creating a wider market and stronger bargaining bloc.
Kutesa said efforts should be enhanced for both countries to use JPC and pursue common interests for sustainable peace, security, stability and development.
The delegates held various group discussions on various aspects of cooperation.
Other Rwandan ministers present during the opening session were Gen.
Marcel Gatsinzi (Defense), Sheikh Fazil Harerimana (Internal security), Prof. Nshuti Manasseh (Public Service and Labour), Tharcisse Karugarama (Justice) Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya (Education) and Rosemary Museminali, State minister for Cooperation.
Also present were Rwandan Ambassador to Uganda Ignatius Karegesa and Uganda's Ambassador to Rwanda, Richard Kabonero.
The two former arch allies have had rough diplomatic ties in the recent past.
Participants were also yesterday evening expected to attend a function organized at the residence of the Uganda Embassy in Kigali to commemorate Uganda's 44th Independence anniversary, which is normally celebrated on October 9. The meeting concludes today.
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