Kampala, January 15, 2024 – The 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit commenced with a robust representation of 93 countries out of the 120 invited, reaffirming the organization’s significance in addressing global challenges.
Approximately 350 delegates have already arrived, and expectations are high for more arrivals as the summit progresses at the Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala. Uganda’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, General Jeje Odong, emphasized the paramount importance of collaboration among NAM member states in tackling pressing issues affecting the global south.
Gen. Odong highlighted the enduring relevance of NAM, citing the organization’s principles established during the Bandung conferences. He underscored the urgency of addressing contemporary challenges, including security, health pandemics, climate change, terrorism, funding for investments, and the looming issue of the global economic downturn.
The NAM, a coalition of 120 countries not aligned with any major power bloc, is convening under the theme “Deepening cooperation for shared global affluence.” The summit is set to run until January 20 and will address critical issues such as geopolitical tensions, development, human rights, climate change, transnational crime, and inclusive multilateralism.
Delegates have already formed committees to deliberate on various issues and craft the draft Kampala outcome document. Despite initial sound glitches during the plenary session, the summit is expected to yield crucial agreements on a range of topics.
The hosting of the NAM Summit by Uganda is significant because President Museveni is set to take over as chairman of NAM for the next three years. At least 28 heads of state will attend the summit, including high-level representatives from North Korea, India, and China.
The NAM Summit will be followed by the Third South Summit, addressing social crises from poverty, climate change, trade, and investments. Uganda will concurrently take over the chairmanship of the G-77+China alliance, enhancing its diplomatic standing on the global stage.
Separately, a declaration on the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict is expected to be a major topic of discussion at the NAM Summit. The Palestine question will be addressed in a dedicated session during the six-day summit.
Uganda anticipates various benefits, including increased attention, potential investments, and the possibility of countries opening embassies in the country. The NAM and G-77+China summits are poised to position Uganda as a key player in fostering global cooperation and shared prosperity.
