The Head of Mission was invited to the 8th International Forum ‘Arctic: Today and the Future which is an annual public event of the year that raises a whole range of issues related to the socio-economic development of the Russian Arctic zone, the development of transport routes, the resource base, investment in Arctic projects, social development and youth support, scientific research, human resource development, ecosystem conservation, cultural heritage.
The Arctic is the largest free economic zone in the world with over 621 investment projects being implemented in the Arctic bringing over 1.6 trillion investments. Already 277 billion rubles have been invested this has provided 10000 new jobs with a target of 35000 more.
Uganda was invited to make a presentation on Sustained Dialogue: view of non-regional states on the development of the Arctic. The Ambassador’s focus was on the views of the Republic of Uganda on ensuring the session sustainable dialogue: the view of extra-regional states on the development of the arctic.
The Ambassador’s remarks on Uganda’s views include the need for;
• African countries particularly Uganda to become more active participants and stakeholders in the addressing some of the issues that affect the region.
• African countries to engage more on the international fora’s where Arctic issues like this forum are being discussed for balanced contribution to the protection of the region.
• Africa should have a louder voice and visibility on international forums where issues on Arctic protection are being discussed.
• Encourage education and awareness among the African communities and include the same in the curriculums on the Arctic region too just like the other regions of importance for African students.
• African countries can apply to become observers of the arctic council to non-members to give them an ability to participate in the different Arctic organization& activities.
• Collaboration can be demonstrated through establishing partnerships with Arctic state particularly in environmental protection and clean energy initiatives.
• African countries can also seek collaboration with Arctic states on research organizations and Arctic scientific organizations, such as the International Arctic Science Committee.