By Isaac Salima:
Defence and security officials from Malawi and neighbouring Mozambique have vowed to do everything in their power to keep agents of terrorism at bay.
Officials from the two countries said this at the end of a three-day Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security Meeting held in Blantyre, where they acknowledged that terrorism poses a threat to both countries, hence the need for joint operations and information sharing on the same.
Defence Minister Harry Mkandawire said, as part of tightening loose ends, Malawi has closed its borders, giving no room to terrorists to pass through.
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“We are prioritising the terrorism fight because it is an issue of global concern, hence the need for each country to be vigilant. As such, we have sealed our borders, especially in the Northern Region. Some of the people who come into the country pose as refugees but indulge in illegal trade, human trafficking and smuggling of goods. So these are some issues that we tackled,” Mkandawire said.
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Minister of Homeland Security Ken Zikhale Ng’oma said it was important to discuss such issues because terrorists are affecting economies and peace in most countries.
“That is why, in December this year, we will engage our brothers and sisters in Zambia on the same,” he said.
Mozambique’s Permanent Secretary of Defence Casimiro Augusto Mueio was pleased that cooperation between Malawi and Mozambique has resulted in the restoration of peace in Mozambique’s Northern Province of Cabo Delgado, which was hit by terrorists.
“Malawi has greatly contributed to the success story in the fight against terrorism in Mozambique. It was, therefore, important to come together and hold this crucial meeting, at which we have discussed pertinent issues,” he said.
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The two countries hold such meetings annually, with last year’s meeting being held in Mozambique.
