ROME (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The close relationship between Italy and Malta is not just geographical but can be seen as “a destiny that binds us,” a bond stretching back centuries. This was the message delivered by Malta’s Ambassador to Rome, Daniel Azzopardi, during an appearance on Diplomacy Magazine, the geopolitics programme of Italpress hosted by Claudio Brachino.
The ambassador highlighted that this proximity is visible “even in the small details, starting with the Italian surnames found in Malta.” According to Azzopardi, the relationship between the two countries goes beyond simple bilateral ties and instead reflects “an excellent symbiosis” that also resonates strongly in the field of economic cooperation.
“I see the relationship between Malta and Italy as a perfect example of how the European internal market works—a market where people, services, capital, and goods move freely. All four elements are moving in significant volumes. For example, we import goods from Italy worth around 2.5 billion euros. That’s a record,” Azzopardi explained.
Malta imports a wide array of goods from Italy, including a portion of its electricity. At the same time, many prominent Italian companies have established a presence in Malta. “That’s the symbiosis I’m talking about,” Azzopardi noted, adding that approximately “15 major Italian companies are doing fantastic work in diverse sectors, from maritime to logistics and precision manufacturing.”
Investment flows also into the opposite direction, with key Maltese firms operating in Italy. In the luxury hospitality sector, for instance, the Maltese company Corinthia is set to open a major hotel in Rome. In Civitavecchia, Maltese bank APS is financing new infrastructure projects. Additionally, Virtu Ferries has established a logistics hub in Sicily, while Marina di Ragusa is managed by a Maltese firm that has also launched a new maritime route. Another example is Marine Group, which manages the Venice Intermodal Terminal.
“There is a great deal of activity,” the ambassador remarked.
Energy cooperation between the two nations is also growing, exemplified by the undersea cable connecting Malta and Ragusa. “This is another demonstration of how well the European energy market works in the case of Malta and Italy. A true European energy market only functions with full interconnection. We are the ideal example, already having an interconnector through which we purchase a significant share of our electricity,” said Azzopardi.
Malta’s growing energy needs, driven by its robust economic development, are prompting the country to invest in a second interconnector—with support from the European Union. “This will represent an even stronger physical link between our countries. It also offers a concrete opportunity to pursue coordinated Mediterranean policy,” the ambassador added.
On the subject of Mediterranean policy, Azzopardi highlighted the strong alignment between Italy and Malta. “It’s a luxury to have two countries with more or less the same vision and Mediterranean policy, both seated at the EU table,” he said.
He also pointed to Malta’s active role in the Med 9 group, a coalition of EU Mediterranean nations that work together on issues such as energy, immigration, and climate. “We are trying to coordinate policies at the European level and then translate them into legislation.”
Internationally, Malta currently holds the rotating presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. Its priorities include child protection, combating violence and discrimination, youth engagement, and supporting Ukraine. “This is our strategy for having a voice in the world, but also to do our part globally,” Azzopardi affirmed.
Returning to bilateral cooperation, the tourism sector—a cornerstone of Malta’s economy—is seeing a new level of coordination this year, with joint police patrols from both countries deployed on the island to ensure tourist safety. “I believe this reflects a very mature relationship between our two countries. It’s not a new model—other neighboring countries within and outside the EU also apply it. It aligns well with the spirit of EU treaties,” the ambassador explained.
Deep ties between Italy and Malta are also evident in the cultural sphere, where the embassy plays an active role. “Last year, for example, we organized an exhibition dedicated to Antonio Sciortino, one of Malta’s most prominent modern sculptors, who studied in Rome. Later this year, we’re planning another exhibition on underwater archaeology with La Sapienza University,” Azzopardi said. After the summer, Malta’s National Day will be celebrated with a special concert at the Pantheon, featuring internationally renowned Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja.
– photo Italpress –
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