The Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for Foreign and European
Affairs and Trade, Mr. Christopher Cutajar, conducted a visit in Algiers from
16 to 19 January 2023. The objective of
this visit was to advance the excellent bilateral relations between Malta and
Algeria through increased political dialogue, enhanced trade exchanges and the
facilitation of business-to-business contacts, as well as to explore new
avenues of cooperation, including in the energy sector.
Mr. Cutajar held positive meetings with the Secretary-General of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad, Mr. Amar Belani, the
Secretary-General of Commerce and Promotion of Exportations, Mr. El Jadi Bakir
and the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Energy and Mining, Mr. Abdelkrim
Aouissi. During these meetings, there was a common understanding from both
sides on the need to consolidate the longstanding relations between both
countries for the benefit of both Peoples.
Discussions also touched upon regional and international issues of
mutual concern, with particular emphasis on the challenges being faced in our
immediate neighbourhood and during which both sides reiterated their shared commitment
for a stable and secure Mediterranean region.
The Permanent Secretary also held a courtesy call with the Algeria
Chamber of Commerce during which both sides agreed to seek new areas of
collaboration to facilitate contacts between the respective business
communities. During his visit, Mr. Cutajar also visited
the Honorary Consulate of Malta in Algiers as well as the Algeria’s National
Museum of Moudjahid which
illustrates the story that led the Algerians to obtain independence in 1962.
Throughout his visit, Mr. Cutajar was accompanied by H.E. Philo Meli,
Ambassador of Malta to Algeria, Mr. Claude Bonello, Director (External Relations
and Mediterranean Affairs), Mr. Duncan Psaila, Honorary Consul of Malta in
Algiers. He was also assisted by Ing. Abigail Cutajar, Advisor within the
Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Enterprise during the meeting held at
the Ministry for Energy and Mining.
