On 13 May, the Ambassador of Malta to the Federal
Republic of Germany, Dr Vanni Xuereb, paid an official visit to the German
Federal State of Saxony-Anhalt.
Malta and Saxony-Anhalt are both renowned for
their remarkable historical and cultural heritage, however, the similarities do
not end there. In fact, through this visit, it was possible to delve deeper
into the relationship between the two states and find common ground on which to
pursue further cooperation.
Accompanied by the Honorary Consul of Malta in
Saxony-Anhalt, Dr Detlef Bischoff, and the Deputy Head of Mission, Mark Abela, Ambassador
Xuereb travelled to Magdeburg, the State Capital of Saxony-Anhalt, where he had
official meetings with the Minister President (Prime Minister) of the
State, Dr Reiner Haseloff, and with the President of the State Parliament, Dr.
Gunnar Schellenberger respectively. He also paid a courtesy visit to the
Mayor-elect of Magdeburg, Ms Simone Borris.
As highlighted during the talks, Malta not only enjoys
outstanding bilateral relations with Germany at the federal level, but the
country has also pursued direct links with several of the Federal States with
which it shares mutual interests, and has since also established excellent
relations at this level.
The topics discussed during the meetings included
current geopolitical issues, education, migration, culture, tourism, and the
evolving COVID-19 situation.
Furthermore, existing trade relations were
examined with a view to bolstering them while also identifying new prospects
and markets which would be advantageous to both parties.
Being one of the pioneers in Renewable Energy,
the Federal State of Saxony-Anhalt can serve as a bridge to help Malta reach its
next goals in its roadmap to shift to cleaner energy sources. On the other
hand, Malta has plenty to offer in terms of education, being regarded as a
prominent destination for students wanting to learn the English language;
tourism, a country of choice for many German tourists; and commercially, having
a multi-lingual workforce, long-term economic and political stability and
having a sound infrastructure for growth.
On the basis of these opportunities, amongst
others, the talks provided an opportunity to showcase Malta’s best assets and
strengths. Moreover, the meetings helped establish direct links with top
Governmental officials, and thus facilitating future cooperation.