On July 5, Malta’s Ambassador to Germany, Dr Vanni Xuereb, paid an official visit to the German Federal State of Baden-Württemberg, during which he participated in several events, facilitated by Dr Rainer Dulger, Honorary Consul for Malta in Baden-Württemberg. Ambassador Xuereb visited Heidelberg, Stuttgart, and Mannheim.

In Stuttgart, Ambassador Xuereb, accompanied by Dr Dulger and Deputy Head of Mission, Mark Abela, had a meeting with the Minister of Justice and Migration of the Federal State of Baden-Württemberg, Marion Gentges, deputising for the Minister President. The Ambassador and the Minister took note of the excellent bilateral relations existing between the two countries and acknowledged that cooperation between the two was stronger than ever. Nevertheless, Ambassador Xuereb highlighted the fact that establishing stronger links and cooperation also at the State level would be mutually beneficial.

Ambassador Xuereb provided a brief overview of the Maltese economy, highlighting its diverse sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, financial services, and information communication and technology. He explained that while tourism played a significant role in Malta’s GDP and attracted millions of visitors annually, it was not the sole driver of the economy. Manufacturing had seen systematic changes, resulting in increased production in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and other products. Honorary Consul Dulger related to his own experience and to the success of ProMinent Fluid Controls Ltd., the Maltese subsidiary of the ProMinent group of companies, which has experienced growth and recently expanded its operations in Malta.

Ambassador Xuereb also highlighted the fast-growing financial services sector in Malta, offering banking, insurance, and investment services. The information communication and technology sector has made significant strides, attracting new jobs. Through a diverse portfolio of industries, Malta successfully weathered the economic hardships brought about by the pandemic, even during brief periods when the tourism industry faced challenges.

Minister Gentges affirmed that the Government of Baden-Württemberg had implemented stabilisation measures to mitigate the impact of the pandemic and revive the economy. Recent developments indicated that these measures were taking effect, and Baden-Württemberg’s economy was gradually recovering. Ambassador Xuereb added that the Maltese Government had also enacted schemes to support local businesses during difficult times. These initiatives, combined with an efficient vaccination system, enabled Malta to reopen its economy earlier than many other countries.

The discussion then shifted onto Migration, specifically regarding the influx of asylum seekers departing from North Africa en route to the EU via the Mediterranean route. On this point, the Ambassador explained that Malta had recently abstained from voting on the EU migration pact due to the lack of reassurance it offered the islands regarding receiving support in times of need with the agreement failing to strike a suitable balance between responsibility and solidarity. Nevertheless, Malta did not block the negotiations entirely, but chose to abstain, thus sending a message calling for increased solidarity and cooperation.

One suggestion raised during the discussion was for the introduction of a new electronic system, like Canada’s, where asylum seekers could submit applications through an online portal, eliminating the need for perilous journeys. Minister Gentges agreed that something had to be done as the situation seemed to be deteriorating from one year to the next. She also agreed that some form of online digital application could perhaps discourage people from embarking on perilous journeys.

Regarding digital applications, the Minister inquired about the extent to which the Maltese judicial system utilised digital resources. Ambassador Xuereb explained the ongoing efforts to modernise the system, including the new website for the Laws of Malta (legislation.mt) and the eCourts system, making the judicial system more accessible to citizens.

In the evening, Ambassador Xuereb was the guest of honour at the Salon Diplomatique in Mannheim. He was greeted by Michael Grötsch, the Mayor for Economy, Labour, Social Affairs, and Culture of Mannheim. The ambassador was invited to sign the Golden Book of the City of Mannheim. He was then welcomed by Helmut Augustin, Chairman of Sparkasse Mannheim who introduced him to the distinguished guests who were coming from the diplomatic and regional business community.

In his address to the Salon Diplomatique, Ambassador Xuereb provided insights into life in the smallest EU member state and explained the benefits of investing in Malta. He emphasised the country’s modern and diversified economy, long-term economic and political stability, transparent legal and regulatory environment, and highly skilled labour force, among other advantages. The audience expressed great interest in the information presented and engaged in a lively question and answer session.

Following the lecture, Ambassador Xuereb took the opportunity to network with the distinguished attendees, including entrepreneurs who have already established successful ventures in Malta.