By Patience Longwe
Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation Joseph Mwanamvekha has hailed the strong bilateral relationship between Malawi and China following the signing of a US$43 million grant agreement in Lilongwe.
Speaking during the signing ceremony between the Malawi government and the government of the Peoples Republic of China at Capital Hill in Lilongwe, Mwanamvekha said the funds equivalent to about K75.29 billion will finance the expansion of the M1 Road from Kanengo to Kamuzu International Airport into a dual carriageway.
He added that part of the grant will support the digitalisation of Capital Hill in line with President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s vision to enhance connectivity across government ministries and departments.
Mwanamvekha noted that Malawi’s diplomatic ties with China, established in December 2007, have continued to deepen and now serve as a cornerstone of the nation’s socio-economic progress.
The Minister also expressed government’s appreciation for China’s pledge to support a solar power project for the entire Capital Hill, saying such initiatives show China’s continued commitment to Malawi’s development needs.
Chinese Ambassador to Malawi Lu Xu said she was honoured to sign the agreement on behalf of the government of China, describing it as a new starting point in the countries’ shared pursuit of development and strengthened friendship.
She said the funding will support key sectors, including agriculture, green energy, trade, and manufacturing, aligning with Malawi’s Vision 2063.
“China has consistently supported Malawi’s development, with several notable projects across the country,” she said.
For nearly two decades, she noted, Malawi and China have upheld mutual respect and equality, supporting each other on matters of sovereignty and core national interests regardless of global shifts.
She described Malawi as a “trustworthy friend and reliable partner.”
