Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi said that the Maltese government was constantly updating the EU on its discussions with China on renewable energy sources.
Replying to questions made by this portal, he said that the discussions with China are tied to a joint venture between the two, including the part privatisation of Enemalta.
Speaking during a news conference, the second in a day, tied to the energy conference being held at the Intercontinental Hotel in St Julians which has seen 30 countries participate, Mr Mizzi said that all participating countries have reached common ground on the creation of a Euro Med gas platform proposed by Malta.
Unlike what happened in the first news conference, this time The Malta Independent was allowed to ask questions.
Mr Mizzi said he was highly satisfied with the outcome of the two-day conference.
Also present for the news conference were Italian Deputy Minister for Economic Development, Claudio De Vincenti and Cypriot Minister for Energy, Commerce, Industry and Tourism, George Lakkotrypis.
Mr Vincenti said that Italy was also looking at developing a gas link which flows through the centre and Northern Europe, supplying up to 40 cubic metres of gas on a daily basis.
He said that a Mediterranean gas platform is an interesting proposal and may enable coordination among Med. countries to ensure energy security for the EU and Mediterranean countries, being EU and non EU.
Mr Lakkotrypis lauded the conference’s fruitful discussions on the potential of the Mediterranean becoming a producer of oil and gas.
He said that the Euro Med gas platform would enable us to enhance security and supply between Mediterranean States.
He said that Cyprus will soon become a producer of gas and this will help create the right climate for investors.
Asked if the government is on track to implement its energy tariff reduction pledge for industry, Mr Mizzi replied in the affirmative.
“Industry is to benefit from reduced energy prices as from March next year,” he said.