By Chisomo Phiri
The Malawi Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Zimbabwe, announcing plans to review key areas of cooperation in June this year.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango made the remarks in Lilongwe on Saturday evening during Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Anniversary celebrations, saying the planned review aims to identify priority sectors that can further deepen ties between the two countries.
“Our government remains committed to enhancing bilateral relations with Zimbabwe, and in June we will review areas of cooperation to further strengthen these ties,” said Mhango.
He noted that relations between Malawi and Zimbabwe date back to the colonial era, adding that the longstanding partnership provides a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation.
“Our cooperation dates back to the colonial era, and this history gives us a solid base to build even stronger relations,” he said.
The minister acknowledged that a review of bilateral relations is long overdue, revealing that Zimbabwe submitted its proposals in 2023.
“The review of our bilateral ties is overdue, considering that Zimbabwe submitted its proposals in 2023. We need to move forward on this,” he said.
Mhango explained that cross-border trade and transnational crime are among the critical areas requiring joint attention.
He also commended Zimbabwe for providing humanitarian assistance to Malawi following recent natural disasters.
“We are grateful to Zimbabwe for the humanitarian support rendered to Malawi during recent disasters that affected many of our people,” said Mhango.
In her remarks,Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Malawi, Nancy Saungweme, said her country is still awaiting feedback from the Malawi Government on the proposals.
“We submitted our proposed areas of cooperation in 2023, and we are still waiting for a response from the Malawi Government.
“Our relationship with Malawi goes beyond diplomacy; it is rooted in shared history and mutual interests,”said Saungweme.
