ANTALYA, Turkiye — Ugandan Foreign Affairs Minister Gen. Jeje Odongo participated in a panel discussion at the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum, focusing on “Connecting Africa: A Prospect for Continental Integration,” held April 11-13.
Odongo emphasized the need for enhanced connectivity in Africa through infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and digital expansion. He also addressed the challenges and opportunities for African integration, highlighting the importance of financial inclusion, value-added production, foreign direct investment, and the creation of a continental single market.
On the sidelines of the forum, Odongo held bilateral meetings with several foreign ministers. He met with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvangil Pinto to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, including potential memoranda of understanding and a joint permanent commission meeting in September 2025. They also exchanged views on global issues, including Uganda’s chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Odongo also met with Slovakian Foreign Minister Jurai Blanar, discussing ways to enhance bilateral ties and agreeing to establish a framework for cooperation and coordination in international forums.
Regionally, Odongo held meetings with Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to deepening bilateral relations and regional solidarity. They discussed efforts to achieve lasting peace in South Sudan, Sudan, and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and agreed to push for stronger, coordinated action through African-led frameworks.
In a meeting with Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe, Odongo discussed bilateral relations and regional issues, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to address regional challenges and ensure sustainable peace and security.
Finally, Odongo met with Deodat Maharaj, Managing Director of the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries, to explore potential cooperation in capacity building and science, technology, and innovation projects in Uganda.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum, organized by the Turkish government, is an annual international platform that brings together world leaders, researchers, and policymakers to discuss global issues. The 2025 forum was the fourth such event held in Antalya.
