President Yoweri Museveni has expressed confidence in Uganda Airlines that is set to partner with Air Serbia to launch operations in Belgrade in the near future in order to boost trade and tourism.

“I would like for Uganda Airlines to begin a partnership with Air Serbia so that it can begin flights to the country in order to fast-track business, tourism, and person-to-person exchange. I have in that regard asked the Ministry for Works and Transport, together with Uganda Airlines, to explore all partnership avenues with Air Serbia,” President Museveni said.

President Museveni’s comments come ahead of his official visit to Belgrade, Serbia on Sunday, July 30, 2023, following a visit by Serbia’s Minister of Trade, Hon Tomislav Momirović and his delegation, to Uganda recently.

“I thank the Serbians for choosing Uganda as a partner to improve trade relations,” the President stated.

Serbia being a major hub for air travel in the Balkan Peninsula a direct flight to Belgrade will be a significant development in boosting trade tourism and international cooperation.

The two countries have been working together on several projects in recent years, and a direct flight would be a further indication of their commitment to cooperation.

Serbia is a substantial trading partner for Uganda. In 2021, the two countries exchanged commodities worth over $100million, and therefore a direct flight would promote the growth of trade and tourism.

The Ugandan government is still in the early stages of planning for a direct flight to Belgrade. However, they are confident that they can make it happen. The government believes that there is a demand for a direct flight between the two countries, and they are confident that they can secure the necessary funding.