Justice and construction reform minister Jonathan Attard met the Vice Mayor of Shanghai on the margins of a visit he paid to China this week.
Attard held a bilateral meeting with Vice Mayor Zhang Xiaohong of the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government.
The meeting focused on “strengthening economic collaboration and exploring new investment opportunities between Malta and Shanghai,” his ministry said in a statement.
Attard, who is Justice minister but also oversees portfolio reform of the construction sector, was in China as he accompanied a Property Malta delegation made up of business delegates.
The visit to Shanghai also served to explore collaboration in international arbitration, with meetings held with the Shanghai Arbitration Commission, the Shanghai International Arbitration Centre (SHIAC), and SG&CO Lawyers, aimed at fostering cooperation in legal and dispute resolution services.
SHIAC has now invited Maltese professionals to express their interest in joining its panel of arbitrators, Attard’s ministry said.
Speaking at a commemorative event in Shanghai, Attard emphasised the enduring relationship between the two nations.
“Malta and China have enjoyed diplomatic relations for over five decades. Throughout these years, our partnership has grown steadily, spanning trade, culture, education, and investment,” he said.
He highlighted China’s role as a global leader in innovation and economic growth, noting that Malta is committed to building new bridges of cooperation that benefit both countries.
Guests were also addressed by Malta’s ambassador to China John Busuttil and Malta’s consul general in Shanghai Lisa Azzopardi.
The celebration was organised by the Consulate General of Malta in Shanghai and premiered Echoes of Malta, which featured designs by Charles & Ron.