The Consulate General of the Republic of Malta in Istanbul organized its yearly Reception, celebrating the 54^th Anniversary from the Independence of the Republic of Malta.

During his speech, Consul General Mr Franklin Aquilina, referred to the increasing commercial relations between Malta and Turkey, both Maritime countries, which are also the result of high and business level visits to and from both countries. Mr Aquilina spoke of the attractiveness of and the opportunities Malta has to offer in various sectors, not less the Pharmaceutical sector, Financial Services, Education and Fintech. Mr Aquilina announced a number of upcoming events to be held in Malta, in the coming months, among them the Malta Maritime Summit, the Delta Summit, the Malta Innovation Summit, the Malta Blockchain Summit and the SiGMA 2018 Summit.

On his part, Mr Ismail Gültekin, Deputy Governor of Istanbul, congratulated Malta on this Anniversary and spoke about the closer bilateral, diplomatic and commercial ties between the two countries. He said that Malta has always been supportive of Turkey’s EU Membership bid and was always on the forefront in its efforts towards peace in the Mediterranean and in the region.

The speeches were followed by a recorded message by Hon Carmelo Abela, Minsiter for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion of Malta.

Among the distinguished guests present for this Event, were the Deputy Governors of Istanbul HE Ismail Gültekin and HE Mehmet Ulutaş, former Turkish Ambassadors to Malta HE Ayşe Sezgin and HE Reha Keskintepe, and other leading members of the Istanbul business community, particularly from the Shipping and Pharma industry.

This event, which was held at the historical Hilton Boshporus Hotel, was supported by AKT Law Firm, Atabay Pharmaceuticals, CNM Events Organizers, Furtrans Holding, Turk Loydu and Malta Enterprise. Ms Ayla Haddeler was presented by a commemorate plaque on her 10^th Anniversary of loyal and distinguished service at the Consulate General, while Mr Gökhan Doğan was presented with a commemorative plaque on his 5^th Anniversary as Honorary Consul of the Republic of Malta in Antalya.  The new Ambassador of Malta to Turkey, HE Carm Vassallo, and his spouse, honoured this Celebration by their presence and participation.