India and Malta held the 4th round of Foreign Office Consultations in Valletta, Malta, on the 27th of this month. The FOCs were co-chaired by Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malta, Christopher Cutajar.
Both sides reviewed the entire range of bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction with the steady progress in India-Malta ties. They welcomed the recent increase in bilateral engagement, marked by high-level visits. The discussions focused on areas of cooperation such as trade and investment, tourism, technology and innovation, the maritime sector, and cooperation in education and culture.
Both sides also discussed ways to deepen economic and commercial relations, particularly in light of the recently concluded India-EU Free Trade Agreement. They agreed to continue cooperation in sectors such as ICT, healthcare, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and education.
During the visit, Secretary (West) met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malta, Dr Ian Borg. They discussed ways to strengthen the ongoing cooperation between India and Malta while also expanding the scope of bilateral engagement. Secretary (West) also met with the Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, Brigadier Clinton J O' Neill, and discussed ways to increase bilateral defense and security cooperation.