Malta and Saudi Arabia agree to strengthen trade and commercial links during Saudi Foreign Minister’s visit

Malta and Saudi Arabia have agreed on the need for more cooperation between the two countries in several sectors, primarily when it comes to trade, following a meeting between Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

The meeting marks the first time in 47 years of bilateral relations that a Minister for Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia has decided to visit Malta with the sole purpose of having a bilateral meeting with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Malta.

Minister Borg said that this fact shows how instrumental and important this meeting was: “Through this strategic meeting we are sending a clear message that the time has come for our relationship to develop to a better one, particularly in the sectors of economy and culture among others.”

He also stated that there is a need for a strengthened strategic relationship intended to facilitate business between the two countries.

During the meeting there was agreement on the need for the Joint Commission on the Economy to continue with its work and thus increase the opportunities for business and trade between Malta and the Arab kingdom.

Minister Borg went on to say that he believes that three other sectors with strong potential for cooperation are the educational, cultural and tourism sectors. The Ministers also discussed the energy sector and dependence on different sources.

The Minister also reiterated Malta’s commitment to continue to be a voice in favour of international peace and security in the United Nations Security Council, adding that on a European level, Malta will continue to support European relations with Saudi Arabia while ensuring that the Persian Gulf region continues to be given the strategic importance it deserves.

During his interventions, Minister Al Saud said that he is very optimistic that this visit to Malta will serve to strengthen the excellent relations that exist between the two countries, not only on the political level but also the commercial one.

He claimed that as a country, Malta’s support in international fora was always appreciated and he wished the country success in the United Nations Security Council.

He also made an official invitation to Minister Ian Borg to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia together with a commercial delegation.