Bank of Valletta and the Maltese-French Chamber renewed their collaboration during a presentation hosted at the French Embassy.

The formal agreement was signed by Kenneth Farrugia, Chief Business Development Officer on behalf of Bank of Valletta and Joseph Bugeja, President of the Chamber. The event was presided over by Béatrice le Fraper du Hellen, French Ambassador to Malta.  

Speaking on this agreement, Kenneth Farrugia said that the Chamber played a key role in promoting trade relations between Malta and France. "The goal behind this partnership is for the bank to extend financial support to the various activities organised by the Chamber but also to make available its professional human resources to the benefit of the members of the Chamber in order to strengthen the trade opportunities for the business community in Malta. Bank of Valletta has already supported a number of French enterprises in setting up their business in Malta".

Thanking Bank of Valletta for their support, Mr Bugeja explained, "Today we are formalising a long-lasting cooperation that has grown from strength to strength over the years." He mentioned that the Chamber has been contributing to the development of commercial relations between Malta and France for more than two decades. "We have always remained true to our mission - that of being the voice for French commercial entities in Malta and Gozo, as well as the promotor for investments".

He also made reference to the French tourist market for Malta, which between January and November 2016 reached 138,000, thereby representing an increase of 11% compared to the same period in 2015.

The Ambassador, who oversaw the negotiations between the parties in the lead up to the renewal of this collaboration, expressed her satisfaction that the official signing was being hosted at the French Embassy.

She commended the Chamber for its invaluable input. "Speaking from experience, I can say that Mr Bugeja and his team work proactively in fostering close collaboration between the Maltese and French business community."

In this respect, she referred to the regular events organised by the Chamber for its members, as well as to the publication Focus France that is issued annually and is an invaluable tool to keep the members abreast of developments and opportunities.

"The Chamber is one of the first points of reference for Maltese business people wishing to do business with or in France and for French business interests seeking to learn more about investment and business opportunities in Malta. I am confident that the joint efforts of Bank of Valletta and the Chamber will bear fruit and yield greater opportunities for the business community."