Valletta, April 20, 2026. In the framework of the commemoration of the fortieth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Colombia and Malta, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia, through its Embassy in Italy, concurrently accredited to Malta, has launched a Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) course aimed at Maltese public officials. The course will be held at the Institute for Public Services in Valletta.
This academic initiative, agreed upon by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of both countries, with the support of the Institute for Public Services and organized by the Caro y Cuervo Institute—Colombian institution dedicated to safeguarding the country’s linguistic and literary heritage—will train approximately 50 Maltese public officials in the Spanish language over a period of 14 weeks.
The pedagogical proposal seeks the comprehensive development of oral and written comprehension and production skills, as well as the intercultural component, based on communicative situations linked to the professional and institutional work of the participants.
The Spanish as a Foreign Language strengthening courses are part of an effort by Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Directorate of Cultural Affairs, aimed at promoting the language as a tool for mutual understanding, strengthening ties of friendship, and contributing to the development of Colombia’s bilateral relations through educational and cultural cooperation. In addition, this initiative promotes Colombia as one of the leading destinations in Latin America for learning Spanish and exchanging knowledge about its traditions and customs.
These classes will be taught by Professor José Luis Duarte, a professional with strong academic training and extensive experience in teaching Spanish, as well as a researcher and teacher trainer. His work in Malta goes beyond language instruction, as he will act as an agent of cultural diplomacy, a facilitator of intercultural dialogue, and a representative of Colombian culture.
