By Burnett Munthali
LUANDA, ANGOLA — Malawi has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the African Union–European Union partnership, signalling bold ambitions for economic growth, regional connectivity, and the green transition.
Speaking at the 7th AU–EU Summit in Luanda, Vice President Right Honourable Justice Dr Jane Mayemu Ansah S.C., J.A. (Rtd), delivered a statement on behalf of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, highlighting the tangible progress Malawi and its partners have achieved over the past 25 years.
“Malawi remains dedicated to making this partnership more effective and aligned with the objectives of the AU–EU Joint Vision 2030,” Vice President Ansah said, stressing the importance of cooperation that produces meaningful results for citizens.
She praised the milestones reached through the Global Gateway Investment programme, describing them as crucial for facilitating trade and investment across Africa.
For Malawi, sustainable development, she noted, is firmly rooted in agriculture and export-oriented industrialisation. The country has established robust export value chains in macadamia, soybean oil cake, sunflower, rubber, cashew nuts, coffee, and other commodities, which are central to its engagement in both regional and global markets.
Yet, she warned that Malawi’s competitiveness hinges on effective connectivity. “While the twelve corridors under the Global Gateway are important, the Nacala Development Corridor remains our principal trade route. It is the most cost-effective channel for transporting agricultural and mining exports, as well as importing equipment vital for mining, manufacturing, and commercialising agriculture,” she explained.
Vice President Ansah stressed that this corridor is pivotal to Malawi’s economic aspirations and confirmed that her government will continue seeking investors to advance the project.
Highlighting Malawi’s role in the global green economy, she pointed out that the country possesses critical raw materials for green technology. “We are advancing responsible mining practices to benefit both Malawians and investors,” she said, noting the government’s ban on raw mineral exports to encourage local processing and stimulate economic growth.
She further argued that Africa’s future depends on pragmatic diplomacy and mutually beneficial partnerships, stressing the need for cooperation that prioritises fairness and sustainable development.
Addressing the European Green Deal, Vice President Ansah called for adequate transition support, capacity-building, and technical assistance, ensuring its implementation is predictable, fair, and development-sensitive.
Throughout her address, she painted Malawi as a stable, peaceful nation, open for investment and committed to collaboration with both the African Union and the European Union. “As a new government, Malawi is open for business,” she concluded, receiving applause from delegates.
Ending her speech, Vice President Ansah expressed gratitude to all participants, saying, “I thank you,” as Malawi positions itself as a key player in Africa’s economic and green growth agenda.
