By Patience Kapinda
Malawi and Japan have reaffirmed their longstanding diplomatic and development partnership, pledging to deepen cooperation in key sectors during Japan’s National Day reception held on Thursday in Lilongwe.
Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, Roza Fatch Mbilizi, who was guest of honour, congratulated Emperor Naruhito on his 66th birthday and commended Japan for its continued support to Malawi.
Mbilizi said since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1964, Japan has played a significant role in supporting Malawi’s development agenda, particularly in infrastructure, energy, education and food security.
“Japan has remained a reliable partner in advancing Malawi’s development agenda through impactful projects and people-centred cooperation,” she said.
Japanese Ambassador Naito Yasushi welcomed guests to the reception and reflected on over six decades of cordial bilateral relations between the two nations.He emphasised the importance of people-to-people exchanges, particularly through volunteer programmes that have strengthened ties at community level.
“We are proud of the enduring friendship between our nations, strengthened by cooperation and mutual respect,” said Yasushi.
The Ambassador cited major infrastructure projects supported by Japan, including Kamuzu International Airport, Nkula Hydropower Station and the Lilongwe Bridge.
He also highlighted continued collaboration in trade, education and development of the Nacala Corridor as part of broader economic cooperation.
Both countries expressed commitment to aligning future collaboration with Malawi 2063 and exploring opportunities for engagement through global platforms such as Expo 2027 in Yokohama.
The reception underscored the shared vision of sustainable development and strengthened diplomatic ties between Malawi and Japan.
