India-Malta Ties Turn 60: Ambassador Pushes for EU-India FTA to Boost Trade
New Delhi, September 17: As India and Malta celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations, Malta’s Ambassador to India, Reuben Gauci, shared exciting plans to strengthen ties. Speaking to , Gauci highlighted Malta’s strong interest in the ongoing EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, saying it would supercharge trade between the two nations.
The milestone marks the anniversary of diplomatic relations established on March 10, 1965. Gauci emphasized how vital this India-Malta relationship is. "India was one of the first countries to build diplomatic links with Malta," he noted. Today, 112 Indian companies operate in Malta, showing the growing business connections. Gauci added, "We’re eager to expand trade with India, and the EU-India FTA will definitely help increase that."
India is pushing hard on multiple trade deals right now, including with the United States, European Union, Australia, and Sri Lanka. These efforts aim to open up new markets and fuel long-term economic growth.
Gauci also spotlighted Malta’s fascination with India’s booming sectors. He mentioned keen interest in the Indian film industry and financial sector. Right now, two Indian pharmaceutical companies already have a presence in Malta. Looking ahead, he hopes the FTA will pave the way for more Maltese investments in India.
The Indian community in Malta adds another layer to these bonds—around 18,000 strong, they make up more than half of the non-Maltese population there. "I wish for even stronger ties in the future," Gauci said.
On the diplomatic front, exciting visits are in the works. An Indian delegation plans to head to Malta for political consultations in October or November. These talks happen every two years, alternating between the countries. The last one took place in New Delhi in September 2023, so it’s Malta’s turn now.
Gauci expressed hope for high-level exchanges, including a possible visit from India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to Malta. He works closely with the Indian High Commission in Malta and believes such trips would deepen relations. Plus, Malta’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Ian Borg, will meet Dr. Jaishankar on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York this September.
These developments signal a bright future for India-Malta relations, especially with the EU-India FTA in focus. As trade talks heat up, both sides seem ready to explore fresh opportunities in business, culture, and diplomacy.
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