China and Malta, though far away from each other and different in size and population, enjoy a long-time friendship and close cooperation in last 37 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, said Ambassador Zhang Keyuan when he presented his credentials to H.E. Dr. George Abela, the President of Malta, at the Palace in Valletta on 17 September 2009.

Ambassador Zhang conveyed warm greetings from Chinese President Hu Jintao and his congratulations on the 45th Anniversary of Malta's independence to President Abela. As new Chinese ambassador to Malta, Zhang assured Dr. Abela his efforts for further consolidated friendship and enhanced economic cooperation between China and Malta.

President Abela reciprocated to President Hu's greetings with appreciation and asked Ambassador Zhang to convey his best wishes to the Chinese president. He observed bilateral relations have been developing smoothly and healthily since 1972, and commented that it can be viewed as a model of equality and amity between countries with different social, historical and cultural heritages.

President Abela welcomed Ambassador Zhang to Malta. The President also spoke highly of China's economic and social achievements attained since the founding of the People's Republic, and wished that the mutually beneficial bilateral relations be further elevated.

The President and Mrs. Margaret Abela later hosted the newly accredited Ambassador, together with German, Dutch and American ambassadors, to an official luncheon at San Anton Palace, Attard.

Ambassador Zhang Keyuan arrived at Malta on 5 August. On 11 September a copy of the credentials was presented to Hon Dr. Tonio Borg, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malta.