By Kondanani Chilimunthaka
President Lazarus Chakwera’ four days of stay in China where he was a special guest during the 3rd China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo has been fruitful to Malawi in many ways including signing of several deals aiming at uplifting Malawi in development.
Among others, one major outcome of his trip is the acquisition of a tobacco market for 10 million kgs of Burley and Flue-cured.
Speaking upon his arrival at Kamuzu International Airport on Monday, 3rd July, 2023, President Chakwera said the tobacco deal is a huge incentive to the country’s farmers, adding that through extra effort to their trade-will gain from the new economic opportunity.
“We have seen the commitment, and the fact that they want to fast-track whatever it is that we agree. We signed several MoUs touching various Ministries, and so we believe that its up to us to speed up processes that will help lift up Malawi to a level that we all desire and aspire to”. Said President Chakwera.
President Chakwera further said Chinese government and investors are commitment to start implementing the signed deals but he was quick to say it remains for Malawi government through various Ministries and Departments to put all the needed process in place quickly for such developmental projects to kick-start.
Writing on his official Facebook page soon after arrival, President Chakwera said the trip was fruitful and he anticipates that the continued discussions will in the end yield good news including a new economic programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
“In addition we also reinforced cooperation with China through discussions with government officials and planning of several Memoranda of Understanding with Huawei Technologies for more cooperation in renewable energy, broadband connectivity, e-government, smart education, and ICT talent training”. Reads part of the message.
