Norway to close Malawi embassy by July 2027

The Norwegian government has announced it will close its embassy in Malawi by the end of July 2027. The decision is part of a broader review of Norway’s foreign service aimed at redirecting diplomatic resources in response to a rapidly changing global security environment.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stated that Norway is facing its most serious security policy situation since the Second World War, necessitating adjustments to the Foreign Service to safeguard national interests. The embassy in Lilongwe has been operational since 2000.

Despite the closure, Norwegian authorities emphasized that development cooperation with Malawi will continue. International Development Minister Åsmund Aukrust noted that assistance will be channeled through multilateral organizations. In recent years, Norway has provided approximately NOK 500 million annually to Malawi, focusing on sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and good governance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will later determine which embassy will manage diplomatic relations for both Malawi and Zambia.