President Lazarus Chakwera has expressed gratitude towards the international community for the role they play in providing checks and balances to the leadership of the country and the financial support it provides for different causes.
Chakwera made the remarks during a presidential diplomatic dinner on Friday at Kamuzu Palace.
“Time and time again, each of you in your respective ways have come to our aid, not only with generous material contributions, but also with great ideas, great advice, and great advocacy on Malawi’s behalf in many places around the world where you are often the only voice speaking well of Malawi.
“And the dividends that Malawi has benefited from your friendship have been rich, including the recent decision by the International Monetary Fund to grant Malawi an Extended Credit Facility that has already started attracting international investments and budgetary support into our economy,” he said, according to a statement shared with Times.
Chakwera said his government appreciates the advice it gets, arguing that it is through such relations that Malawians at the end of the equation stand to benefit.
“My officials and I honour you for your gift of friendship to Malawi. Of course, friendship does not always mean that we always agree, for your friendship would not sharpen us as much as it does if you agreed with everything we decide is best for our country.
“But I am most grateful that even when we disagree, you respect our right to determine our own fate as all nations must, and you still stand by us. I am also grateful that despite any disagreements that may have occurred this year, we can finish the year together over a meal as one family that is committed to the common cause of pushing Malawi’s labour pains towards the birth of a more prosperous future for all her sons and daughters,” he said.
Recently, development partners are unlocking support to Malawi with some promising direct budget support following the approval of the $174 million Extended Credit Facility by the International Monetary Fund.
