Page 31 - NewsletterQuarter2

Uganda Trade Hub in Serbia: Paving the Way
for Bilateral Prosperity and Tourism
The Uganda Trade Hub,
“Uganda Connect,” is poised
to bolster bilateral relations
by facilitating the export of
Ugandan goods and ser-
vices to the Balkans
region.
nlocking Bilateral Prosperity and The Uganda Trade Hub, "Uganda Connect," is poised
Tourism: Uganda Trade Hub Opens to bolster bilateral relations by facilitating the export
in Serbia of Ugandan goods and services to the Balkans region.
On July 30, 2023, a significant mo- This strategic step opens doors for Uganda to showcase
Wment marked the strengthening of its processed coffee, clothes, food, leather, and more in
bilateral relations between Uganda and Serbia as Pres- Serbia and neighbouring regions.
ident Yoweri Museveni officially launched the Uganda President Museveni, in a tweet, shared his optimism
Trade Hub, known as "Uganda Connect," in the heart of about the hub, emphasizing its potential to promote
Belgrade, Serbia's capital. Ugandan exports and strengthen the partnership be-
The launch event was graced by the presence of both tween the two countries. He expressed gratitude to the
President Museveni and the President of Serbia's nation- Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Indus-
al parliament, Dr Vladimir Orlić. It was a milestone that trial Development (PACEID) and other stakeholders for
underscored the enduring friendship between the two their contributions to this achievement. President Mu-
nations, which has flourished for six decades. seveni believes that this milestone can pave the way for
President Museveni, addressing the gathering, outlined Uganda to reach out to other parts of the world, creating
Uganda's determination to expand its economic hori- new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity.
zons, beginning with the coffee sector. He expressed the In the context of tourism, this collaboration between
need for value addition, enabling Uganda to move from Uganda and Serbia provides exciting prospects for both
earning just USD 2.5 per kilogram of raw coffee to shar- nations. The presence of UTB and the Uganda Contin-
ing the revenues from processed coffee, valued at USD gent at the launch, with UTB exhibition stalls graced by
40 per kilogram. the presence of Serbia's Minister of Internal and Foreign
Dr Orlić, appreciating President Museveni's visit, Trade, Tomislav Momirovic, signifies a significant oppor-
noted the significance of their nations' strong bilateral tunity. Uganda's unique tourism offerings, including its
relations. He highlighted Uganda's support for Serbia's diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural
candidacy as the host of Expo 2027 and expressed satis- heritage, can be promoted and shared with the Balkans
faction at the opening of Uganda Trade Hub in Belgrade. region. It's a two-way street, as Serbia's own tourism
The meeting held at the National Assembly in Belgrade attractions and cultural experiences can capture the
was an opportunity for both leaders to reminisce about imagination of Ugandan and East African tourists. This
their nations' common history, their shared struggles for collaboration signifies the potential for mutual growth
freedom and independence, and their joint aspirations in the tourism sector, fostering cultural exchange and
for progress and a brighter future for their citizens. economic development.