President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera today inaugurated the three-day Malawi-European Union (EU) Investment Forum 2024 at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, calling for strengthened investment partnerships to drive Malawi’s economic growth.
In his opening address, President Chakwera highlighted the forum’s goal of fostering collaboration between Malawi and EU member states, with a focus on transforming key sectors such as Agriculture, Tourism, and Mining.
“The forum presents a unique opportunity for European nations to invest in Malawi’s key sectors while influencing the governance reforms implemented by my administration,” said Chakwera.
EU Ambassador to Malawi, Rune Skinnebach, affirmed the EU’s support for Malawi’s development through the Global Gateway Strategy, which seeks to align investment initiatives with the country’s priorities.
“Through the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, we aim to unlock investment opportunities that promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth,” Skinnebach stated.
Myriam Ferran, Deputy Director-General for International Partnerships at the European Commission, reiterated the EU’s commitment to fostering progress in Malawi, rooted in shared values of sustainability, human rights, and economic cooperation.
The forum also saw the signing of three key agreements:
1. Grant Agreement to enhance energy policy performance.
2. Implementation Agreement to strengthen Public Financial and Economic Management (PFEM).
3. Commitment Ratification for AGCOM 2.0 Financing to boost agricultural commercialization.
“These agreements are a testament to the growing confidence of European investors in Malawi’s potential,” said Ferran, noting that they would play a critical role in accelerating the country’s economic transformation.
The forum brings together government officials, investors, and development partners to explore opportunities for collaboration. It is expected to set the tone for future investment initiatives aimed at transforming Malawi into a regional economic hub.
