Rwanda and Uganda governments have agreed to revive Northern Corridor Integration Projects including the much-needed Standard Guage Railway and the removal of non-tariff barriers that limit the free movement of persons and goods.
Speaking at the Joint Permanent Commission held in Kigali, Uganda's Foreign Affairs Minister Jeje Odongo noted that both countries would now exert all efforts to promote mutually beneficial trade such as infrastructural challenges and non–tariff barriers that affect the smooth flow of goods and services.
Gen. Odongo said the private sector expects both governments to provide an attractive environment for business.
He said the Session discussed other areas of interest for both countries such as One Network Area (ONA), the Single Customs Territory, the Single East African Tourist Visa, free movement of persons and goods, among others.
In the same JPC meeting the government announced that Uganda Airlines, the flag carrier of Uganda, is set to start direct flights to Rwanda, a move meant to, among others, ease trade and movement between the two countries.
"Uganda welcomes the acceptance of the designation of Uganda Airlines by Rwandan authorities which will lead to its commencing of direct flights from Entebbe to Kigali," said Minister of Foreign Affairs, JeJe Odongo.
He believes that direct flights to Rwanda will further boost trade, enhance connectivity, and contribute to strengthening people-to-people exchanges.
