Museveni, Iranian Ambassador Hold High-Level Talks on Kampala-Tehran Cooperation

Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday hosted Majid Saffar in Kyankwanzi, in a meeting that highlights a level of diplomatic engagement between Uganda and Iran.

According to the President, the Iranian envoy paid a courtesy call during which both leaders held discussions on “issues of mutual interest and cooperation” between the two countries.

Uganda and Iran have maintained strong, cordial diplomatic relations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, characterized by high-level visits, collaboration in trade, energy, health, and agriculture.

President Yoweri Museveni (2nd R) with Iran’s Ambassador to Uganda Majdi Saffar (2nd L). The meeting was also attended by Foreign Affairs Minister Jeje Odongo (R)

Ambassador Saffar has also been actively engaging Ugandan leadership and institutions, reaffirming Iran’s interest in deepening cooperation and expanding its footprint in East Africa. His diplomatic outreach comes at a time when global geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the U.S. remain high, although the envoy has repeatedly assured regional partners that Tehran’s actions are defensive and not directed toward Africa.

President Museveni, who currently plays a prominent role in international diplomacy as Chair of the Non-Aligned Movement, has previously engaged Iranian leadership on broader global issues, including peace and stability in the Middle East. Iran is a member of the NAM.

Sunday’s meeting in Kyankwanzi signals continued commitment by both Uganda and Iran to sustain dialogue and explore mutually beneficial partnerships amid evolving regional and global dynamics.