By Abel Ikiloni & Tiyanjane Mambucha:
President Lazarus Chakwera is undertaking official engagements in Vatican City today, the highlight being his meeting with Pope Francis.
Malawi’s Ambassador to Germany and the Vatican, Joseph Mpinganjira, confirmed in an interview with the Malawi News Agency (Mana) that Chakwera arrived in Rome Sunday.
He said the President’s agenda includes a meeting with the head of the Catholic Church and leader of the Vatican.
Mpinganjira said Pope Francis invited Chakwera to discuss matters of mutual concern, given the Catholic Church’s contributions to Malawi in areas such as health, education, social services, governance and pastoral care.
“As President Chakwera meets with the Vatican leader, it is important to express our gratitude for the Catholic Church’s contributions to Malawi’s development and its role in safeguarding people’s rights,” the envoy said.
After his meeting with Pope Francis, Chakwera is expected to hold discussions with the Secretary of State of Vatican City to strengthen the relationship between Malawi and the Vatican.
Vatican, the smallest independent State in the world, covers 49 hectares and has a population of 749. It is located in Rome, Italy.
Meanwhile, Chakwera emphasised the importance of continued engagement with Southern African Development Community (Sadc) member states, saying Malawi cannot thrive in isolation.
He made the remarks Sunday at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Zimbabwe, before departing for Rome after attending the 44th Ordinary Summit of Sadc Heads of State and Government.
Chakwera said his participation in the summit allowed him to interact with other member states, which have pledged support to Malawi.
“I had a bilateral meeting with the United Nations and the Executive of the Economic Commission for Africa. They are coming to Malawi and we will collaborate to ensure our economic progress,” he said.
He also discussed meetings with various presidents, including Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan, and arrangements for purchasing maize from her country at a subsidised price.
“She understands the importance of mutual support within our region,” Chakwera said.—Mana
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