President Lazarus Chakwera has praised China as a steadfast partner in Malawi’s development efforts. During bilateral talks on Tuesday with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Chakwera acknowledged China’s ongoing support across various sectors.
Expressing gratitude, Chakwera thanked President Xi for China’s assistance in debt restructuring, infrastructure projects, scholarships, and capacity-building programs. He also noted the timely humanitarian aid provided by China during climate-related disasters. Additionally, President Chakwera proposed the creation of a technical team of officials from both nations to discuss key development issues, aiming to enhance cooperation further.
Chakwera also expressed appreciation for China’s commitment to completing the preparatory work for constructing the Judicial Complex in Lilongwe, following the recent agreement between the two governments.
President Xi Jinping, in his response, expressed his readiness to deepen relations with Malawi, aiming to elevate the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. He also praised President Chakwera’s efforts in advancing development in Malawi and expressed optimism that the ongoing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit would strengthen ties between the two nations.
The 2024 FOCAC Summit is focused on enhancing cooperation in areas such as Africa’s industrialization, energy, and trade. Established in 2000, FOCAC fosters relations between China, 53 African nations, and the African Union, with summits held every six years and ministerial conferences every three years.
