Joaquim Chissano University awarded President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera an honorary Doctorate Degree in International Cooperation and Development on Thursday, recognizing his strategic thinking and efforts to foster synergies with neighboring countries.
In a ceremony held at the Joaquim International Conference Centre, President Chakwera accepted the degree and emphasized the importance of international cooperation for national development.
“No matter how developed or resilient a country can be, it can never thrive without external assistance,” he stated. “International cooperation is the only reasonable path to a prosperous future; if you remove international cooperation from any country it will collapse.”
President Chakwera highlighted that it is delusional for any nation to believe it can survive in isolation.
“A nation is sovereign and not self-contained. Malawi’s prosperity and security depend on a robust relationship with the countries with whom she shares her borders, and among these countries, the country that we share a lion’s share of our border with is Mozambique,” he added.
Reflecting on global challenges such as COVID-19 and natural disasters, President Chakwera noted that these events have emphasized the need for cross-border collaboration.
“It does not matter who gets it first, but working together as a brotherhood of nations, combating challenges like climate change impacts and cyclone Freddy, which hit both Mozambique and Malawi, is crucial,” he said.
The President expressed his gratitude for the honorary doctorate, which he described as a recognition of his efforts to strengthen international cooperation, particularly with Mozambique.
“Among the cooperations, none has been stronger than the one I share with Mozambique,” he remarked.
Senior Professor Jose Magode, Vice Registrar at Joaquim Chissano University, praised President Chakwera’s commitment to international relations.
“The University’s Council rigorously scrutinized President Chakwera’s dedication to strengthening international cooperation. His visit to Mozambique in October 2020 marked the beginning of a strong relationship, resulting in agreements that benefit both nations,” he explained.
Professor Magode highlighted the mutual benefits derived from the bilateral relations between Mozambique and Malawi, emphasizing how these relations leverage the strengths of both countries.
“President Chakwera’s strategic thinking and adoption of external policies have led to innovative solutions for Malawi’s challenges,” he added.
Established on February 5, 1986, Joaquim Chissano University confers honorary degrees under Article 6 of its honorific privileges, awarded to individuals who exhibit dedication to community and humanity.
