Malawi has signed a development cooperation agreement with Turkmenistan in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and unlocking support for key development projects.
The agreement, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on Tuesday on the sidelines of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries underway in Turkmenistan, was signed by Malawi’s ambassador to Qatar, Roy Kachale and a Turkmenistan official.
Vice President Michael Usi, who is leading the Malawi delegation to the UN conference, witnessed the signing ceremony.
He described the MOU as a critical framework for future collaboration, particularly in sectors where Turkmenistan has demonstrated expertise such as energy, infrastructure and education.
“If there is no agreement or an MOU, it is difficult to get help because there will be no reference points that will guide the cooperation,” Usi said.
Bilateral relations between Malawi and Turkmenistan date back to February when the two countries agreed to establish diplomatic ties.
The Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, currently underway in the Turkmenistan capital Awaza, brings together leaders, policymakers and development experts to address the unique challenges faced by landlocked nations.
The conference aims to foster international partnerships, improve transit and trade infrastructure, and promote sustainable development strategies tailored to the needs of these countries.
JN/APA