India and Malta recently conducted their fourth round of Foreign Office Consultations in Valletta to enhance their bilateral relations. Both countries agreed to boost collaboration in various sectors such as Information and Communications Technology, healthcare, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and education. Discussions also revolved around deepening economic and commercial ties, especially in light of the recently finalized India-European Union Free Trade Agreement.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that the consultations encompassed a wide range of bilateral relations, emphasizing the positive trajectory of India-Malta ties. Notably, both nations acknowledged the significance of their diplomatic relations, which will mark their 60th anniversary in 2025. The discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, investments, tourism, technology, innovation, maritime affairs, and educational and cultural exchanges.
Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, and Christopher Cutajar, Permanent Secretary of Malta’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, co-chaired the meeting. The officials engaged in talks to strengthen ongoing cooperation and broaden the scope of bilateral engagement. Additionally, Secretary George met with Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ian Borg, to explore avenues for further collaboration between the two nations.
During the visit, Secretary George also interacted with business leaders in Malta to bolster trade, investment, and business ties between India and Malta. Furthermore, discussions were held with Brigadier Clinton J O’ Neill, Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, to enhance bilateral defence and security cooperation. The visit also included a tour of the St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, a significant historic site known for its Baroque architecture.
