By Martha Rukunya

Lilongwe, November, 26, Mana: President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has today officially opened the three days Malawi-European Union (EU) Investment Forum 2024 at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.

Speaking at the function, the president highlighted that the forum main aim is to cement the investment partnership with EU member states, paving the way for Malawi's economic development.

"Malawi has great potential in agriculture, tourism, and mining, providing opportunities for European member states to invest. Additionally, the reforms implemented by the government further enhance this potential," Chakwera said.

The European Union Ambassador to Malawi, Rune Skinnebach, emphasized on the EU's strong commitment to investing in Malawi.

"We aim at advancing the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy in alignment with Malawi's development priorities, unlocking investment opportunities that drive sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth," he said.

In his remarks, Deputy Director General for International Partnerships, European Commission, Myriam Ferran outlined that EU is committed to remain a steadfast partner in Malawi's development.

"Our partnership is built on shared values: respect for human rights, commitment to sustainability, and a belief in the transformative power of trade and investment,” she noted.

During the function, three agreements were signed: the grant agreement which will enhance energy policy performance, implementation agreement which will strengthen public financial and economic management (PFEM) and Ratification of commitment for financing the AGCOM 2.0.

These agreements will pave the way for European investors to engage in various ventures in Malawi, contributing to the country’s economic growth.