President Museveni Praises Sudhir Ruparelia for Success of NAM & G-77+China Summits, Credits Visionary Rejection of Sectarianism

By Gad Masereka

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has expressed gratitude to business magnate Sudhir Ruparelia for his instrumental role in the successful organization of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G-77 + China Summits in Uganda. The President credited Sudhir and the National Organizing Committee (NOC) for their dedication and emphasized the importance of rejecting sectarianism in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

During a meeting with the NOC members at State House Entebbe on January 31, 2024, President Museveni commended Sudhir Ruparelia, Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, and the entire organizing team for their efforts in ensuring the success of the international summits. He expressed his appreciation for the inclusive vision that attracted investors like Sudhir to contribute to Uganda’s growth.

“I thank Dr Sudhir, Nakyobe, and her team as well as the super supervisor Nakadama, Nabbanja, and everybody who was involved. Thank you very much,” said President Museveni, acknowledging the collaborative efforts that made the summits a triumph.

The President attributed the success of attracting diverse and influential individuals, including Sudhir Ruparelia, to the rejection of sectarianism based on religion, tribe, and race. He highlighted the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) commitment to inclusivity as a driving force behind the presence of prominent figures from various backgrounds.

“Now by the NRM rejecting this sectarianism of religion, tribe, race; that is how you get all the Sudhirs, the Chinese, Indians, the Arabs, the Africans of all these countries who are here. So, you can see that the vision plays a role in bringing all these people here,” President Museveni explained.

Encouraging the committee and the citizens to leverage the benefits of the summits for the country’s development, President Museveni emphasized the ongoing South-to-South investment and the need to capitalize on existing opportunities.

Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama, the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, expressed the government’s commitment to continuous improvement to ensure Uganda’s reputation as a successful host for international gatherings. She thanked the organizing committee and participating nations, emphasizing the importance of learning from experiences and strengthening resolve for future endeavors.

Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for entrusting the committee with the responsibility. She hailed the committee members for their hard work and dedication, emphasizing the significance of the President’s recognition and appreciation for their efforts.

As Uganda celebrates the success of the NAM and G-77+China Summits, the emphasis remains on leveraging the momentum for future accomplishments and contributing positively to global affairs