Veneman Compliments Ugandan President

May 15, 2002

Secretary of Agriculture Ann Veneman says economic growth in Uganda "is a model for Africa." Increasing nearly 7% in the last decade compared to 3.4% in the late 1980s, and far outpacing the rest of Africa. The remarks came Monday at a luncheon for Uganda's President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

"The United States has a strong commercial and security interest in strengthening our trade and investment ties with Uganda and Africa, in general. As you have seen in your own country, the key to unlocking Africa's potential lies in higher levels of growth through trade and private investment," Veneman said.

U.S. policy toward Africa is "to help those countries that are undertaking the boldest reforms; to encourage private sector trade, investment and economic activity; to invest in people; and to make sure that Africans themselves are full partners in this relationship." The Bush administration wants to "promote stronger relations with Africa through its major regional development and economic groups. Through these partnerships we can discuss issues such as business, trade development, agricultural reform, and mutually beneficial cooperation, she said.