By Burnett Munthali
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. George Chaponda, has emphasised that the African Union–European Union (AU-EU) Summit presents a crucial opportunity for Malawi to advance its long-term development agenda.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Summit in Luanda, Angola, Chaponda said the meeting offers a strategic platform for Malawi to engage development partners on issues of industrial development and digital industrialisation.
He noted that the European Union remains one of Malawi’s strongest and most reliable partners in development cooperation.
Chaponda highlighted that the EU supports Malawi through grants, concessional loans, technical assistance, trade facilitation, and energy-sector investment.
He said these forms of support continue to play a critical role in strengthening the country’s economic resilience and expanding its development capacity.
The minister also stressed that Malawi’s lack of direct access to the ocean remains one of its biggest barriers to economic growth.
He added that for Malawi to effectively integrate into regional and global markets, improving transport corridors is essential.
Chaponda revealed that he intends to raise the issue of the Nacala Corridor during the Summit discussions.
He explained that enhancingo the Nacala transport route could significantly improve the flow of goods and services into Malawi.
According to the minister, a functional port along the Nacala Corridor would make it easier for Malawi to import essential commodities, particularly fuel.
He said ensuring a steady and efficient supply of fuel is vital for the country’s economic stability and industrial productivity.
Chaponda further noted that both road and rail infrastructure are central to Malawi’s access to the sea through neighbouring countries.
He observed that strengthening these transport networks would improve trade logistics and reduce import and export costs.
“The development of a port on the Nacala Corridor will boost trade and development in terms of access to the market for our products and also bring vital supplies such as fuel,” Chaponda said.
The most recent AU-EU Summit before this year was held in February 2022 in Brussels, Belgium.
During that 2022 meeting, leaders from both unions agreed on a renewed joint vision aimed at strengthening cooperation and shared development objectives.
This year’s Summit marks the 25th anniversary of the AU-EU partnership.
The event is being co-chaired by Angolan President João Lourenço and the President of the European Council, António Costa.
Malawi’s delegation to the Summit is being led by Vice President Dr. Jane Ansah.
Her leadership at the high-level meeting underscores Malawi’s commitment to deepening cooperation with both African and European partners.
The Summit is expected to produce strategic outcomes that will shape Malawi’s development path in the years ahead.
