European Union (EU) Ambassador Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi has reaffirmed the bloc’s strong and enduring partnership with Malawi, pledging continued support for the country’s development and governance priorities.
Speaking during a media engagement at the EU Ambassador’s residence in Lilongwe, he expressed optimism with Malawi’s democratic journey and future cooperation.
Gaztelumendi’s tour of duty in Malawi has coincided with the ushering in of President Peter Mutharika and Democratic Progressive Party administration following their triumph in the September 16 General Election.
The diplomat presented his letters of credence to former president Lazarus Chakwera in early September after taking over from his predecessor Rune Skinnebach.
He praised Malawians for conducting peaceful and credible elections, and further commended the Malawi Electoral Commission for its professionalism.
Said Gaztelumendi: “It has been an intense but exciting time, from the elections to the inauguration of President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika in Blantyre.
“It was truly impressive to see Malawians express their views in such a peaceful and decisive manner. We congratulate President Mutharika on his election and commend the people of Malawi for their strong attachment to democracy.”
He also highlighted the work of the EU Election Observation Mission (EOM), which deployed 110 observers nationwide and released its preliminary report of the elections. The final report, containing recommendations to further strengthen Malawi’s electoral process, is expected before the end of the year.
In an interview, Media Institute for Southern Africa-Malawi Chapter chairperson Golden Matonga, who was present at the event, hailed the EU head of mission for engaging with the media, saying it accords the press an opportunity to understand issues they may need to report on.
“The EU as a stakeholder may have a message to share with the public and this serves as an opportune moment for both parties, hence the importance of interactions such as this one where they would seek more information and clarification of some matters.”
The EU is one of Malawi’s key economic partners, accounting for 12.1 percent of total trade and serving as Malawi’s largest trading partner outside Africa.
Furthermore, Malawi benefits from duty and quota-free access to the EU market under the ‘Everything But Arms’ agreement.
The EU will mark 50 years of partnership with Malawi in 2026.
