By Kondanani Chilimunthaka
President Lazarus Chakwera on Friday, 7th July, 2023 applauded President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania for being true and trusted friends of Malawi who stand with the country in all times.
President Chakwera made the remarks during a joint Press briefing he and his counterpart conducted at Sanjika Palace in the commercial city of Blantyre at the end of a three-day State visit by the Tanzanian President.
“Madam President, when I see you and the people of Tanzania, I see family, because when we were hit by Tropical Cyclone Freddy three months ago, which killed over a thousand Malawians, displaced over half a million, destroyed over 40 roads, washed away a year worth of food crops for 2 million people, you and your Government were the first to respond with the speed that one can only expect from family. When I see you and people of Tanzania, I see true friends of Malawi, because you celebrate our successes with us and offer ways of collaboration and cooperation to help us succeed even more.
I am delighted that during this state visit we have made great progress in our bilateral discussions to strengthen our cooperation in the areas of infrastructure development, tourism, energy, trade, diplomacy, education, information, and digitization, and cross-border security, just to name a few”. Said President Chakwera.
He further expressed gratitude to have witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding together with his Tanzanian counterpart that aims at the two countries pursuing the vision of a diplomatic data corridor to enhance the movement of people and goods between the two countries.
In his speech, President Chakwera disclosed that he shared with his counterpart on his administration’s decision to introduce Kishahili language studies in Malawi with am aim of strengthening the social bond with Swahili speaking countries like Tanzania.
In her remarks during the Press briefing, Tanzanian President told the Press that she felt honored to be invited to Malawi and grace the 59th Anniversary of Malawi’s Independence Day.
“My visit would have been incomplete without a tour to Kapeni View Point to see with my own eyes, and I have seen the devastation caused by the Tropical Cyclone Freddy”. Said Hassan while making assurance that her country will continue to be brotherly to Malawi.
Hassan described her three-day state visit to Malawi as memorable due to hospitality, and cordial welcome, saying the relations have been built on solid foundations by the founding fathers, late Mwalimu Julius Nyelele and Dr. Kamuzu Banda who were visionary and shared similar Pan African views, adding that her visit reaffirms Tanzania’s commitment towards strengthening such historic ties.
On his Facebook page, President Chakwera said Malawi will always be grateful to Tanzania for their kind gesture during Malawi’s time of dire need, including the time it was hit by Cyclone Freddy.
