On the occasion of the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, H.E. President George Vella delivered a video congratulatory message:
I congratulate the People of China on the occasion of their National Day.
I also take this opportunity to recall that this year Malta and China commemorate the 50th Anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations.
Over these five decades our countries have built a strong relationship based on a very strong juridical framework and on reciprocal respect.
Our ties have gone beyond the traditional signing of various agreements and the establishment of joint projects at both the bilateral and the multilateral levels. In fact, they contributed materially to the strengthening of our economy when it was still being consolidated.
When one looks at the number and frequency of high-level visits and agreements reached and signed, it becomes clear that relations are both dynamic and innovative. These relations in no way reflect the huge demographic and geographic difference that exist between our two countries.
We cooperate on a vast array of fields, ranging from health and medicine, energy, water, culture, education, and youth and many more.
The Chinese Cultural Centre in Valletta and the Chinese Garden of Serenity in Santa Lucija, and the Confucius Institute at the University of Malta, are just a few examples of the strong people to people contacts that have been established during the years.
We look forward to the promotion and enhancement of tourism between Malta and China, in line with the trend that had started before the COVID Pandemic.
I also take this opportunity to salute the presence of a sizeable Chinese community in Malta, whose presence and activity contributes directly to our economy and our rich and dynamic social fabric.
From the broader angle, the Coronavirus pandemic has highlighted once more the importance of multilateralism and solidarity amongst states. I welcome the cooperation that we maintained to overcome the dangers of this pandemic through bilateral projects.
At the same time, it is equally important that Malta and China remain active supporters of effective multilateralism and demonstrate active respect for International Law and institutions.
There are several existing and emerging global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, global health, and equitable access to resources, that require collective cooperation.
In light of very worrying developments on the international level, it is fundamental that we all do our part against events that present a direct threat to the multilateralism so as to avoid the dismantling of the systems, which we have painstakingly developed over the decades.
No effort should be spared in this regard.
I conclude my message by wishing the Chinese community in Malta and the people of China my best wishes on their National Day and Golden Week holidays.