On September 22, 2021, Assistant Foreign Minister Deng Li attended and addressed the reception marking the Independence Day of Malta held by the Maltese Embassy in China upon invitation.

Deng Li congratulated on the 57th anniversary of the Independence Day of Malta and said since its national independence, Malta has made achievements to be proud of in its economic and social development through active exploration. China and Malta have always respected each other's development path chosen by themselves, deepened traditional friendship, and set an example of friendship and cooperation between large and small countries. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Both sides should carry forward the spirit of mutual respect and equality, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, push China-Malta relations to a higher level, and contribute to the sound and stable development of China-Europe relations.

Maltese Ambassador to China John Aquilina said that Malta and China enjoy a traditional friendship. He looks forward to celebrating the milestone moment of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties with China next year. Malta is committed to building a more prosperous and united Europe, and is ready to play its role in promoting the development of Europe-China relations.