Zimbabwe, Malawi review bilateral cooperation

Zimbabwe and Malawi have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and fast-tracking the implementation of joint programmes as the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the 11th Session of the Zimbabwe-Malawi Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC) opened in Harare on Thursday.

The review meeting is expected to assess progress made since the 11th Session of the JPCC and identify measures to accelerate the implementation of agreed projects across several sectors.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ministry Permanent Secretary Albert Chimbindi said the review presented an important opportunity for both countries to evaluate achievements and deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

He stressed the need to ensure that commitments made during previous engagements are translated into practical outcomes that improve the lives of citizens in both countries.

"Our collective task is to conduct a rigorous, honest and action-oriented review of progress on all agreed programmes, and to finalize outstanding Memoranda of Understanding and Agreements," Chimbindi said.

He noted that the mid-term review was essential for maintaining momentum in the implementation of bilateral initiatives and ensuring that cooperation continues to deliver tangible benefits.

Malawi's Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Chauncy Matthews Simwaka, underscored the importance of sustained engagement between the two neighbouring countries, particularly as Southern Africa faces common economic and environmental challenges.

Simwaka said regional cooperation had become increasingly important in responding to the growing impact of climate change on agriculture, food security and livelihoods.

He called for stronger collaboration among countries in the region to build resilience against climate-related shocks and promote sustainable development.

Zimbabwe and Malawi currently cooperate in a wide range of sectors, including tourism, agriculture, wildlife management, capacity building, mineral value addition and beneficiation.

The outcomes of the review are expected to guide the implementation of existing agreements while identifying new areas of cooperation aimed at strengthening economic ties and advancing regional integration between the two countries.