Malawi has been urged to maintain a steady course of facilitating socio-economic growth by continuing to promote a suitable environment for the country to realise its development goals.
Japanese Ambassador to Malawi, Yoichi Oya, was speaking in Lilongwe during the celebrations marking the 63rd birthday of Emperor Naruhito of Japan. He said Japan will continue to support Malawi in various areas of the economy.
” I am delighted to note that despite the harsh and drastic global challenges over the past 15 years, Malawians continue to radiate the warmth and great hospitality they are known for,” Oya said.
He said the Japanese Government will continue implementing various projects for the betterment of the people of Malawi. Oya said on average Japan pumps in K30 billion per year in various projects.
Among other things, he said Japan is helping the expansion of Domasi College of Education to increase enrollment capacity and the upgrading of Old town Bridge in Lilongwe among other projects.
In her remarks, Malawi Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo delivered a congratulatory message from President Dr Lazarus Chakwera to his Majesty Emperor Naruhito and the people of Japan.
Tembo then hailed the monarchy for the role it plays in making sure there is peace and stability in Japan as well as helping in building bilateral relations with other countries.
She also hailed the cordial working relationship the two countries have in various sectors of the economy including, health, agriculture, energy and road infrastructure development.
“We have been assured by the government of Japan that they will provide K6 billion meant for the purchase of fertiliser in the 2023-24 farming season,” Tembo said.
Malawi and Japan have for the past 59 years enjoyed a close relationship that has made many strides in development cooperation.
In addition to various development initiatives, Japan provides volunteers to Malawi in various sectors. There is also growing trade between the two countries with Malawi exporting to Japan items such as tobacco, fruits and tea while importing from Japan goods like transport equipment, chemicals, and electrical machinery, among other items.
