North Korea has decided to shut down its embassy in Uganda, signaling the end of a long-standing diplomatic relationship spanning five decades. The closure was announced on Monday following discussions between Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and North Korean ambassador Jong Tong Hak.
In a statement released by the government and shared with AFP, Ambassador Jong conveyed North Korea’s strategic move to reduce the number of embassies in Africa, including Uganda. This decision aims to optimize the effectiveness of the country’s external institutions.
Ambassador Jong assured President Museveni that despite the embassy closure, the enduring friendship between the two nations would persist and continue to grow stronger in the future.
North Korea first established ties with Uganda shortly after its independence from the UK in 1962. In 1971, Pyongyang provided support to Idi Amin during his ascent to power, offering military training and arms assistance to his forces. The following year, North Korea opened its embassy in Kampala.
Over the years, President Museveni made several visits to North Korea, allowing him to meet the late leader Kim Jong Il, father of the current leader, Kim Jong Un.
The closure of the North Korean embassy marks a significant development in the countries’ diplomatic history, ending a chapter that witnessed collaboration and mutual engagement.