(March 3, 2026)

Dear Ms. Marisa Xuereb, Chairperson of Attard & Co. Ltd.,

Dear Mr. Hugh Arrigo, Director of Attard & Co. Ltd.,

Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends,

Good evening! It is a great pleasure to gather with you to celebrate the Lantern Festival. Thanks to Ms Xuereb for your insightful remarks, to Attard & Co. Group for hosting this special celebration tonight, and to distinguished guests present today representing various sectors and industry for your contribution to China-Malta relations. As we witness changes and turbulence in the international landscape, I would like to share a few thoughts on broadening cooperation between our business communities:

First, tap into potential to promote two-way investment. Businesses like Shanghai Electric Power (Malta) are now becoming benchmark projects for China-Europe green development, proving our high complementarity in resources, technology, capital, and cooperation models. We should further unlock cooperation potential in emerging fields like the digital economy, AI, and clean energy to jointly write a new chapter in bilateral trade.

Second, maintain resolve to enlarge the pie of mutual benefit. The Attard & Co. Group has been deeply engaged in the Chinese market for many years, successfully building an industrial matrix with its Chinese partners, demonstrating mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Europe. Its business is expanding globally, galloping like a leading “horse”. Another example is Shandong Far-sea Development Ltd., taking advantage of our bluefin tuna cooperation channels, as it is leading this business between our countries. This inspires us to start with specific projects in specific fields and to further extend the list of mutually beneficial cooperation and win-win outcomes.

Third, inject momentum to strengthen connectivity and mutually beneficial ties. China is committed to high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. We welcome Maltese enterprises like the Attard & Co. Group to promote the synergy between Malta's Vision 2050 and China's development strategies. We invite you to board the express train of Chinese modernization, advance cooperation in manufacturing, maritime, and aviation sectors, so as to tighten our shared interests through enhanced connectivity.

Fourth, stimulate vitality to expand the scope of business cooperation. The Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee reaffirmed China's commitment to expanding high-standard opening up, creating broader horizons for China-Malta economic cooperation. We encourage the business community to leverage platforms like the China International Import Expo (CIIE) to expand cooperation in green development, tourism, and health care, so as to continuously inject fresh vitality into our ties.

This year is the Year of the Horse. The Lantern Festival symbolizes perfection, harmony, and hope. Let us carry forward a vigorous spirit and take the lead in advancing our mutually beneficial cooperation. I wish the Attard & Co. Group continuous, rapid advancement at full gallop! I wish all friends present great auspiciousness and instant success in the Year of the Horse! Thank you!