Vice President Jessica Alupo Strengthens Uganda-Russia Relations During Official Visit to Moscow
MOSCOW— Uganda’s Vice President, Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, has emphasized that the strengthening ties between Uganda and Russia are rooted in shared values and mutual benefits for the citizens of both nations.
Speaking on Tuesday, June 10, during a meeting with Valentina Matviyenko, Chairperson of the Federation Council—the upper chamber of Russia’s Federal Assembly—Alupo reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Russia across various sectors.
Accompanied by senior Ugandan government officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Gen. Jeje Odongo, Security Minister Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Katugugu Muhwezi, and State Minister for Ethics and Integrity Rose Lilly Akello, Vice President Alupo led the Ugandan delegation in bilateral discussions held in Moscow.
“My visit to Russia marks another significant milestone in the ever-growing relationship between our two countries,” Alupo said, highlighting Uganda’s plans to host the 3rd Session of the Uganda-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission. She expressed optimism about expanding bilateral cooperation and identifying new areas of partnership.
Alupo also paid tribute to Matviyenko’s trailblazing career, noting her past role as the first female mayor of St. Petersburg and describing her as a role model for women in leadership.
In response, Matviyenko commended the longstanding relationship between Uganda and Russia, calling it a “time-tested” partnership. She praised President Yoweri Museveni for his active role in Russia-Africa engagements, including his participation in both the first and second Russia-Africa Summits.
She further applauded Vice President Alupo’s rise through the ranks to her current position, calling it an inspiration for women leaders.
Alupo is also scheduled to address the Federation Council during her visit.
Uganda-Russia relations date back to 1962, the year Uganda gained independence. Russia was among the first countries to establish an embassy in Uganda, laying the groundwork for decades of collaboration in key areas such as health, education, investment, military cooperation, and technology transfer.
