China Reaffirms Support for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline Project
Frank Semata 
President Yoweri Museveni received a letter from His Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, expressing unwavering support for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline Project (EACOP).
The message, hand-delivered by Ambassador Xue Bing, Special Envoy for Horn of Africa Affairs, emphasized China’s commitment to collaborating with Uganda for the project's success.
President Xi Jinping's letter, read by Chinese Ambassador Zhang Lizhong, hailed the EACOP as a catalyst for regional socio-economic development.
"I am in full support of EACOP. I believe that it will enhance socio-economic development for the region," the letter stated.
President Museveni welcomed China's support, assuring constructive addressing of major project concerns.
Ambassador Zhang Lizhong extended invitations for further discussions on project financing in China, with Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa.
Ambassador Xue Bing discussed deepening bilateral relations, Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and a Horn of Africa peace conference.
President Museveni proposed collaboration for infrastructure development, particularly a railway network, seeking technical support from China.
Expressing appreciation for completed projects like Isimba and Karuma Power dams, President Museveni highlighted the transformative impact of a railway system.
"We want to build a railway system... We need your technical and material support," he stated.
President Museveni urged Chinese companies to invest in value addition at the source, fostering employment and economic growth.
"We need you to come and add value to our products... what we need now is value addition," he emphasized.
Ambassador Xue Bing conveyed President Xi Jinping's admiration for Uganda's achievements, citing successful international summit hosting. He reaffirmed China's commitment to Uganda's stability and development, pledging continuous bilateral cooperation.
