Eleven years into diplomatic relations between China and Malawi, the two have forged strong ties. China is one of Malawi's top trading partners, and among the nations represented at the upcoming FOCAC Summit. Malawian President Peter Mutharika met with the Malawian community in Beijing, where he described China as a source of encouragement in changing lives. CGTN's Jane Kiyo has more.  

Malawian President Peter Mutharika arrives for a meet and greets with Malawian students at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing. Ahead of the FOCAC Summit, Mutharika interacted with students as part of ongoing efforts to promote good relations between the two countries. His speech entitled "From Poverty to Prosperity" was perhaps the most engaging message.

China's presence in Malawi has grown steadily since the two nations established diplomatic ties in 2007 and signed a trade agreement. Chinese companies have invested in trade, agriculture, public health and education there. China has also completed projects such as Bingu Stadium, Malawi University of Science and Technology and Malawi's parliament building. President Mutharika believes there's much more in store.

PETER MUTHARIKA PRESIDENT OF MALAWI "We come to China to learn our lessons--it's an inspiring lesson that tells African countries it's time to move from poverty to prosperity."

President Mutharika was also awarded an honorary degree by the university.

ROBERTA SAGAWA MALAWIAN STUDENT "I was fortunate to be the first beneficiary of a Chinese government scholarship. I came here in 2015."

STEWART MAKOSANI MALAWIAN STUDENT "I chose China because of the unique perspective."

JANE KIYO BEIJING "Since the establishment of China-Malawi relations, the southern African country has received substantial aid and benefited from their experience in working with China. With the FOCAC Summit, those ties are expected to deepen. Jane Kiyo, CGTN, Beijing."