Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines Nathaniel Garcia Imperial presented his Letters of Credence to President George Vella at the Presidential Palace, Valletta.
President Vella observed that, despite geographical and demographical differences, the ties that bring the two countries together continue to be strengthened further. He mentioned in particular that Malta is home to an ever-increasing Filipino community residing and working in Malta. At the commercial level, there is ample room to further promote business ties as well as increased trade flows between both sides. Furthermore, as two maritime island nations, our countries share a strong interest in promoting the importance of healthy seas and oceans. The President also stated that Malta welcomes the increased contact between the European Union and the Philippines. In this regard, Malta will continue to welcome increased engagement between both sides also through its active participation in the EU-ASEAN framework and the EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.
Ambassador Garcia Imperial conveyed appreciation to the people of Malta for the way the Filipino community has been welcomed and for the opportunities being provided. During his term in office, he will be looking at possibilities to enhance trade exchanges as well as cooperation in the maritime sector. He recalled how several professionals in the field have received intensive training at the Malta-based International Maritime Law Institute with great benefits for the country’s capacity building. The Ambassador also added that the Philippines are very interested in strengthening cooperation with Malta in multilateral diplomacy.
Photos: OPR
