Malawi introduces foreign and diaspora engagement policy to benefit citizenry

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International  Cooperation (MOFAIC) has launched the Malawi Foreign Policy with the  overall aim to inform, guide, and strengthen the conduct of Malawi foreign relations with  the international community.

Speaking on Monday in Lilongwe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International  Cooperation, Emmanuel Fabiano described the policy as highlighting strategic national  interests in engaging the international community in five priority areas of sovereignty  and territorial Integrity, sustainable development, peace and security, Democratic  Governance and Human rights and Environment Management and climate change.

“While pursuing sustainable development, the policy reaffirms Malawi strong  commitment to mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, regional and global peace and security” Fabiano said.

The minister also introduced the first ever Malawi Diaspora Engagement Policy which  seeks to establish a mutually beneficial relationship between Malawi and her diaspora, with the underlying goal of mainstreaming and empowering Malawians abroad to  effectively make significant and effective contribution to the country.

“This policy is a response to the urgent need to harness the potential of the diaspora  and integrate the diaspora initiatives into the national development policies through a  formal and institutionalized platform,” said Fabiano.

Fabiano also launched the Diaspora portal which is a website aimed at promoting  dialogue and action for the development of the international community  providing a platform where they will be able to register and access correct information and receive  assistance when needed.

United States Ambassador to Malawi Virginia Palmer said it is a great idea to have these networks available and the portal will be useful to Malawians abroad.

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