Malta highly values its long-standing friendly relations with France and is dedicated to nurturing and deepening these ties. Diplomatic relations between Malta and France were formally established soon after Malta’s independence on September 21, 1964. However, the bilateral ties between our two countries extend much further back and are deeply rooted in history. Malta’s relations with France are longstanding and traditionally very friendly, sharing not only an ancestral history but also aspirations rooted in common values and principles.   The cooperation between the two countries is cross-cutting, ranging from cultural to economic, social and political matters.  It is pertinent to note that France was among the very first countries to recognize the Independence of Malta and later as a Republic.  It was also a strong partner in supporting Malta’s Neutrality.

At the commercial level, both countries enjoy a dynamic economic exchange. France continues to be an important trade partner for Malta.  The figures speak for themselves, with French imports reaching more than €350 million worth of goods and services and more than €230 million Maltese exports to France.  French businesses’ presence in Malta is also felt in several sectors, mostly in the insurance sector, logistics, transport, microchips, and pharmaceutical products.  Tourism is also a stronghold niche in terms of exchanges between the two countries.

Both countries are also committed to multilateralism and the shared objective of peace, democracy and the rule of law.  This is also reflected in their membership in several international and regional organisations, including the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and the Union for the Mediterranean among many others.  Above all, both Malta and France are Member States of the European Union.

The Mediterranean region is another common priority, and the challenges faced therein including migration, peace and stability in our immediate neighbourhood.  To this effect, both Malta and France also cooperation in sub-regional levels including in formats such as the 5+5 and the MED9.