China, Malawi establish diplomatic ties

A joint communiqué says the governments of China and Malawi, in conformity with the interests and desire of the two peoples, have decided to recognize each other and establish diplomatic relations between the two countries at ambassadorial level as from 28 December 2007.

The Chinese government supports the Malawian government in its efforts to safeguard its state sovereignty and develop its economy, says the communiqué, according to Xinhua news agency.

The Malawian government recognizes that there is but one China in the world, that the Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, according to the joint communiqué.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi and Malawian Minister for Presidential and Parliamentary Affairs Davis Katsonga exchanged views on the future development of China-Malawi relations after signing the joint communiqué in Beijing.

Malawian Foreign Minister Joyce Banda confirmed in Lilongwe Monday that her country has established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China.

It means that Malawi has cut off its 41-year-old relationship with Taiwan, a province of China.

"The government of the Republic of Malawi recognizes that there is but one China in the world ... and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory," said Banda, whose country has become the 170th country to have diplomatic relations with China.

In Africa, only four states, with a total population of less than 17 million, recognize Taiwan. They are Swaziland, Burkina Faso, Gambia and Sao Tome and Principe.

Article published courtesy of BuaNews