Ota, Japan – The Malawian government is seeking to strengthen bilateral ties with Japan through city-to-city cooperation. Foreign Minister Nancy Tembo proposed this initiative during a meeting with Mayor Masayoshi Shimizu of Ota City, Japan, on the sidelines of the TICAD Ministerial Meeting.
Minister Tembo suggested establishing a partnership between Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital city, and Ota City. Such a collaboration would facilitate networking opportunities and exchange programs between the two countries, fostering closer cultural and economic ties.

Following the bilateral meeting, Minister Tembo participated in a cultural event in Ota City, experiencing traditional Japanese customs firsthand. She donned a kimono and participated in a Chanoyu Sado ceremony, a highly ritualized tea-drinking practice.