Sino-Maltese relations are facing new waves of opportunity with China entering into more opening-up stage in the 12th five-year plan period, predicted Ambassador Zhang Keyuan of China to Malta at the New Year Gala Dinner held by the Malta-China Friendship Society on the 15th January, 2011.

Ambassador and Mrs Zhang Keyuan attended the annual dinner of the Society and in his address, Zhang highlighted the fresh development of the cordial relations that existed between Malta and China in the year of 2010. The Ambassador remarked that bilateral relationship has developed in such an extent that new vitality has shown across number of areas. He noted in particular the successful stories of CISK beer which had won two gold medals at a beer competition in China just a week ago. He hoped that more Maltese companies will seek the opportunity when China increases its domestic consumption in the next few years. Ambassador Zhang also noted with appreciation the contribution by the Society and its President, Mr. Reno Calleja, and looked forward to the Society playing an even more positive role in the coming new year.

Mr. Calleja thanked the Chinese Embassy for the continuous supports to the Society and described his positive experience and feelings with China in the past over 30 years. Mr. Calleja assured Ambassador Zhang that the Society members, albeit on a non-profit volunteer basis, were proud to devote themselves to the friendly relations between Malta and China, and will continue to contribute to the furthering and expansion of exchanges and cooperation between two peoples.