PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR JUSTICE AND REFORM OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR Malta celebrates the 51st Anniversary of the Republic and strengthens ties with China

Maltese experts invited to submit their interest to join World-Leading Arbitration Panel

Malta marked the 51st Anniversary of the Republic with a strong message of friendship and collaboration between Malta and China. Speaking at a commemorative event in Shanghai, Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector Jonathan Attard emphasised the enduring relationship between the two nations, built on mutual respect, shared values, and a vision for prosperity.

“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,” stated the Minister. 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.

On the margins of the celebration, a bilateral meeting was held with Vice Mayor Zhang Xiaohong of the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government, focusing on strengthening economic collaboration and exploring new investment opportunities between Malta and Shanghai.

The distinguished guests were also addressed by Mr John Busuttil, Ambassador of the Republic of Malta to the People’s Republic of China, and Ms Lisa Azzopardi, Consul General of Malta in Shanghai, who highlighted the importance of Malta-China relations and the opportunities for future cooperation.

The celebration, organised by the Consulate General of Malta in Shanghai, premiered Echoes of Malta, supported by Arts Council Malta and led by Ms Marta Vella, featuring the iconic designs of Charles & Ron. This artistic showcase captured Malta’s identity through fashion, storytelling, and movement. Furthermore, guests, which included various dignitaries as well as a business delegation from Property Malta, were entertained by a performance from Mr Samuel Mallia.

The Minister reaffirmed Malta’s openness to foreign investment, stressing its strategic advantages: “Foreign investment strengthens our competitiveness, creates jobs, and drives innovation. As a government, we will always support partnerships that are fair, sustainable, and beneficial to all parties involved,” he said.

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.

A significant development was SHIAC’s invitation to Maltese professionals to express their interest in joining its panel of arbitrators. Ranked among the world’s top ten arbitration centres, SHIAC offers a unique opportunity for Maltese experts to contribute to global dispute resolution and strengthen Malta’s presence in international legal networks.