By Burnett Munthali
President Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi has shared an important update on his official Facebook page, revealing that he recently held bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. The discussions took place on the sidelines of the Summit of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), marking the continuation of dialogues held in 2021 and 2023.
In his post, President Chakwera emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the conversations around economic production, modernization, industrialization, and infrastructural development translate into rapid and tangible outcomes. The elevation of the bilateral relationship between Malawi and China to a strategic partnership was a key focus, with Chakwera expressing optimism about the future.
“As we approach the 17th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, Malawi looks forward to shared prosperity via the Belt & Road Initiative, an infrastructure program that promises huge economic impact in the Global South, when factored into the African Continental Free Trade Area structure,” Chakwera wrote.
The President outlined specific projects that he proposed to President Xi Jinping as prime candidates for inclusion in the Belt and Road Initiative. These projects include the improvement of the Rumphi-Nyika-Chitipa-Ilomba Road and the rehabilitation and expansion of Malawi’s railway lines. Chakwera highlighted how these infrastructure developments could significantly enhance connectivity between Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania, boosting regional trade and integration.
In response to Chakwera’s proposals, President Xi Jinping expressed his intention to make the FOCAC summit a landmark event for Malawi, ensuring that the 17th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations heralds a new era of sustainable development.
Chakwera’s update underscores Malawi’s dedication to strengthening its relationship with China and leveraging it for the nation’s economic growth and infrastructural development. The President’s engagement at the FOCAC summit is poised to have far-reaching implications for Malawi’s future, particularly in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative and its integration with broader African economic frameworks.
