POLITICAL CONSULTATIONS HELD BETWEEN THE FOREIGN MINISTRIES OF GEORGIA AND MALTA
On 13 September 2024, political consultations between the foreign ministries of Georgia and Malta took place in Valletta. The discussions were led by Deputy Minister Teimuraz Janjalia from the Georgian side and Permanent Secretary Christopher Cutajar from the Maltese side.
The consultations covered a wide range of topics, including bilateral and multilateral relations, Georgia’s integration into the European Union, the situation in the territories occupied by the Russian Federation, and regional developments.
Both sides expressed appreciation for the friendly relations and cooperation between Georgia and Malta, emphasizing the importance of maintaining close dialogue and exchanging visits. They discussed specific proposals to enhance sectoral cooperation in areas such as trade, economy, tourism, education, and people-to-people relations.
Deputy Minister Janjalia thanked Malta for its unwavering support of Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, highlighting Malta’s strong backing within the OSCE and the UN Security Council. Both sides agreed to deepen collaboration within international organizations.
The Georgian delegation provided detailed updates on the country’s progress toward EU integration, including steps taken under the Association Agreement, the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) Agreement, the enlargement package, and strategic projects related to Black Sea energy and connectivity. Janjalia emphasized the crucial role of Malta’s support in facilitating Georgia’s EU accession talks.
Malta reaffirmed its readiness to share its expertise in key areas relevant to Georgia’s European integration.
During his visit, Deputy Minister Janjalia also met with Edward Zammit Levy, Chairman of the Foreign and European Affairs Committee of the Maltese Parliament, and other committee members from both the ruling and opposition parties. They discussed common European challenges, EU enlargement, and Russia’s illegal actions in Georgia’s occupied territories.
Both Malta’s executive and legislative branches reiterated their firm support for Georgia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and European Union aspirations.
Additionally, a meeting with Christopher Vassallo Cesareo, President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, focused on enhancing trade and economic cooperation, Georgia’s economic integration into the EU, and investment opportunities. A draft memorandum of understanding between the Chambers of Commerce of both countries was presented for consideration, aimed at advancing concrete cooperation.
The Georgian side extended an invitation to their Maltese counterparts to visit Tbilisi.
