Malawi and China Strengthen Ties Ahead of 17th Anniversary
Malawi and China have held important talks with President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit. This meeting follows previous discussions in 2021 and 2023.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera expressed a strong desire for their economic and infrastructure plans to move forward quickly, as their bilateral relationship is set to become a strategic partnership.
Looking ahead to their 17th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Malawi is eager to benefit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to boost economic development in the Global South. This initiative is expected to play a key role in the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Among the projects discussed were improvements to the Rumphi-Nyika-Chitipa-Ilomba Road and the rehabilitation and expansion of railway lines. These projects are expected to enhance connectivity between Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania.
President Xi Jinping promised to make the FOCAC summit a memorable and productive event for Malawi, marking a new era of sustainable development as they approach their 17th anniversary of diplomatic ties.