Uganda, Israel Agree On Defence Cooperation

The governments of Uganda and Israel will further enjoy a strengthened relationship on matters concerning defence, security and welfare among others.

This comes after the two governments signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Defence Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala.

The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Permanent Secretary Rosette Byengoma signed on behalf of the Uganda Government while Asaf Dvir signed for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).

Byengoma commended the existing relationship between Uganda and Israel and thanked the Israeli government for supporting Uganda’s social-economic transformation agenda. She said Israel has played a big role in building Uganda’s air defence capabilities.

“Israel has helped us to strengthen our different branches of the military, more especially in Air force and Air Defence. Your invariable expertise and support have, to a greater extent made our air space safer, and for this, we are grateful,” Byengoma observed.

She lauded Israel for supporting the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) in training, provision of modern equipment and availing opportunities for technological transfer to cope with the emerging global threats like terrorism, cyber-crime, youth bulge and environmental changes, among others.

Byengoma further called for loyalty and commitment to the signed legal framework, saying that it will fasten government transactions in many areas of mutual interest. “I believe this product will facilitate smooth engagements between the two parties,” she noted.

The Head of Delegation SIBAT, Asaf Dvir thanked the Uganda Government and UPDF Leadership for pacifying the country. “On behalf of the Israel Ministry of Defence (ISMOD), we would like to transfer our appreciation to the leadership for this process and also for the continued relationship in the future,” he said.

He promised to commit to the existing historical relationship on defence and security cooperation. “We are delighted to share our experience and knowledge with our allies on issues that deal with economic development, cultural transformation, defence and security cooperation, among others,” said Asaf.