Shared path toward modernization: Malawi’s Speaker of the National Assembly on lessons from China

In an interview with Guangming Online, Catherine Hara, Speaker of the National Assembly of Malawi, shared insights into the growing cooperation between Malawi and China. She emphasized the importance of learning from China’s discipline, international cooperation, and commitment to shared development. "Looking at what China has achieved, it gives us hope that with hard work and discipline, we can reach similar levels," Hara remarked. She highlighted that the infrastructure support from China, including the construction of Malawi's parliament, has been invaluable.

Hara also stressed the significance of shifting from aid to trade, noting recent improvements such as the removal of tariffs on Malawian agricultural exports to China. "This will help our people find better markets," she said, underscoring the importance of trade for economic development. She further emphasized the need for developing countries, like Malawi, to adopt locally tailored solutions instead of copying foreign models, citing China’s success in creating its own path to modernization.

Reflecting on the broader relationship, Hara expressed optimism about the mutual learning between China and African countries. "China can help build our capacity in areas like mining, and in turn, we have much to share," she concluded, affirming that the partnership will benefit both sides and drive shared prosperity.