The Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Anitah Annet Among, has said that for advancement and progress of society and nations, mutual respect is very important in the relationship amongst the Commonwealth.
Among was addressing the dignitaries at the ongoing Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth taking place at the Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo in Kampala.
“We must respect each other however small a nation is, mutual respect is key in our relationship to ensure progress and advancement of humanity. We are a family of 2.4 billion (Commonwealth) people but we all have different norms, cultures and values and it is only proper to respect each other but not force certain behaviours or values on others. We can work together for the betterment of our people despite having divergent views, opinions, cultures, values etc,” explained Among.
The Speaker was taking the jab against some Western countries whom she said want to force their behaviours, cultures and values onto others yet they do not work for them.
Uganda in particular has in the past had a rough relationship with the United States and some other Western States over the Anti-homosexuality Act passed last year.
Just a few days back, the US removed Uganda from the AGOA trade deal; Uganda has been earning averagely $8m per annum from AGOA.
The State Minister for Trade Hon David Bahati was adamant about Uganda’s removal, he noted that Uganda will look for ready markets elsewhere within Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
