President Chakwera Hails Malawi-Iceland Ties as PM Visits
The five-day premier visit reinforced the nations' collaboration across multiple sectors over the past 35 years since establishing diplomatic ties in 1989.
LILONGWE, Malawi - President Lazarus Chakwera has expressed gratitude for the strong long-term relationship between Malawi and Iceland, which marked 35 years of fruitful friendship and development cooperation this year, writes Esther Banda.
Speaking at a joint press briefing with visiting Icelandic Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson on Thursday, Chakwera said he was thankful the PM accepted his invitation to visit Malawi, demonstrating Iceland's commitment to strengthening their special relationship.
"I invited Mr. Benediktsson for three reasons: to express profound appreciation for Iceland's unwavering support to Malawi, to commemorate 35 years of fruitful cooperation, and for him to witness the impact Icelandic taxpayers' money is making here," Chakwera explained after the PM's five-day official visit.
The president disclosed plans were underway to mutually identify a third district for Iceland to implement its Basic Social Services Programme, which currently only benefits Nkhotakota and Mangochi districts.
For his part, Benediktsson stated his government's commitment to continue supporting Malawi's development endeavors.
He emphasized investing in human capital, ensuring equal opportunities, and increasing women's participation in the labor market as crucial for Malawi's development progress – key pillars that helped transform Iceland from poverty to prosperity.
Foreign Affairs Minister Nancy Tembo said the two leaders agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations, with Iceland continuing to support the Mangochi program's exit phase to sustain gains.
The five-day premier visit reinforced the nations' collaboration across multiple sectors over the past 35 years since establishing diplomatic ties in 1989.