President Yoweri Museveni has held bilateral talks with Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan in Dar es Salaam, with the two leaders agreeing to deepen Uganda–Tanzania cooperation in energy, trade, infrastructure development and regional peace.

Museveni said the discussions were fruitful and focused on strengthening collaboration between the two neighbouring countries in areas seen as critical to East Africa’s economic integration. The meeting comes as Uganda and Tanzania continue to pursue joint projects aimed at boosting regional trade efficiency, expanding energy connectivity, and improving cross-border infrastructure.

A major highlight of the talks was the review of progress on the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), one of the region’s most strategic energy projects. Museveni stated that the EACOP project is on course. The pipeline is expected to support Uganda’s crude oil export plans by providing a route through Tanzania to international markets, while also reinforcing Tanzania’s role as a key transit and export corridor in the region.

Museveni also said the two leaders discussed plans for additional pipelines, including gas and refined oil pipelines. He noted that these projects are intended to strengthen shared energy security and expand long-term cooperation in petroleum infrastructure. Energy experts have previously pointed out that expanded pipeline networks and refinery-related infrastructure can play an important role in stabilizing fuel supply chains and reducing logistical bottlenecks in the region.

Beyond energy, the leaders addressed trade facilitation measures, including the importance of improving access to the ports of Dar es Salaam and Tanga. Uganda relies heavily on regional transport corridors for both imports and exports, and port efficiency remains a key factor for business competitiveness and the movement of goods across East Africa.

Museveni added that discussions also covered extending railway connectivity and removing non-tariff barriers, which have often been cited as a major obstacle to smoother trade within the East African Community. Improved railway links between the two countries could boost cargo movement and reduce transport costs, especially for bulk goods.

On regional peace and security, the meeting focused on joint efforts to promote stability in the Great Lakes Region. Security cooperation in the region remains an important agenda for neighbouring states, as peace is widely viewed as essential for investment, development and long-term economic growth.

In his remarks, Museveni emphasized that Africa’s prosperity lies in production, value addition and strategic security, reiterating the need for stronger industrial capacity alongside infrastructure expansion.

Museveni thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan for the invitation and warm welcome in Tanzania, signaling continued commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Uganda and Tanzania.