Major General Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff, recently hosted Colonel Zhang Hao, the first-ever Chinese Military Advisor to Uganda, at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya. This landmark visit, held on July 8, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the enduring relationship between Uganda and China, a partnership that dates back to the era of the National Resistance Army, now known as the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Colonel Zhang praised China’s crucial role in Uganda’s economic development, especially within the Defence sector. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to bolstering bilateral relations and enhancing military cooperation across various fields.
“Colonel Zhang expressed a strong commitment to enhancing existing bilateral relations and military cooperation in various areas,” stated Col Deo Akiiki, the Deputy Public Information Officer of the UPDF, in an official release.
Joining Colonel Zhang was Song Jinpeng, a representative from the Chinese Embassy. The visit highlights the growing strategic partnership between Uganda and China, with both nations aiming to strengthen their military and economic ties.
“As Uganda continues to modernize its military and expand its defense capabilities, the presence of a Chinese Military Advisor is seen as a significant step in fostering closer military cooperation and knowledge-sharing between the two nations,” the statement added.
This development is anticipated to pave the way for deeper collaboration and the exchange of expertise between the armed forces of Uganda and China.
