On Sunday, September 1st, 2024, Vice President H.E. Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo arrived in Beijing, China, to participate in the Heads of State and Government Summit under the Forum for China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The Summit, scheduled from September 3rd to 8th, 2024, represents a critical platform for advancing China-Africa relations.

Upon her arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, H.E. Jessica Alupo was formally received by the Chinese Ambassador to Uganda and Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubhaker, Uganda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and representatives from the Uganda Embassy in Beijing. Representing H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Alupo's participation highlights Uganda's steadfast commitment to fostering a robust partnership with China.

In the lead-up to the Summit, Hon. Gen. Odongo held preliminary discussions with H.E. Zhang Lizhong, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China. During these discussions, Ambassador Zhang underscored China's commitment to welcoming African leaders and emphasized Uganda’s crucial role in shaping the Summit's outcomes, including the Beijing Declaration and Action Plan. These efforts resonate with the objectives of Africa’s Agenda 2063, which seeks to promote sustainable development through enhanced cooperation.

The elevation of China-Uganda relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership is a significant milestone, positioning Uganda among a select group of African countries with this esteemed status. This distinction reflects the enduring and mutually beneficial partnership that continues to yield tangible results for both nations.

s Vice President H.E. Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo represents Uganda at FOCAC 2024, her presence reaffirms Uganda’s dedication to contributing constructively to the ongoing dialogue, ensuring that the outcomes of the Summit will further strengthen the bonds of cooperation between China and Africa.