If it plays its cards well, Malta may have an important financial and economic role in Europe, said Bruno Brouchiquan, director of external relations of the leading French bank, Credit Industriel et Commercial (CIC).
The bank, which forms part of a global network with close to four million clients, has chosen Malta as its destination for this year’s cultural trip for some 300 of France’s finest students who are following undergraduate degrees in the fields of economy and finance.
Speaking to The Malta Independent following the group’s arrival in Malta on Monday for a three-day stay, Mr Brouchiquan said that every year, the bank organises cultural trips for some of the best students in the field, since it feels that by doing so, it will be making a good investment in the future leaders of the French financial and economic sector.
“Students who open accounts with us are given a bonus of 160 euros, apart from special conditions, and this cultural trip is also offered as part of the package,” he said.
The bank normally chooses a European town or city that has a strong link with what is happening at present, said Mr Brouchiquan, adding that he viewed Malta as a country in transition.
“The country is charged with history, with numerous monuments and a strong religion, but my impression is that there is already the presence of a strong banking network.
“I believe the country can play an important role in Europe, particularly in the economic and financial sectors, since its geographical position on the southern border between the west and east of Europe gives it the potential to act as a link between the EU and other countries,” he said.
CIC’s chosen European city last year was Vienna, particularly since it was Mozart year there and the European presidency had passed over from France to Austria.
During the last three days, the French students have been given the opportunity of participating in a cultural exchange with a chosen group of 12 Maltese students, who assisted them in their discovery of the island from a cultural and historic point of view.
The programme of events included a harbour cruise, a visit to Mdina, a jeep safari in Gozo and a concert at St John’s co-Cathedral, among others. The French agency Ormés organised the stay.
Mr Brouchiquan said CIC was looking into the possibility of developing its network in Europe. Forming part of the group Crédit Mutuel, CIC is the fourth largest banking group in France. It is also the second largest private banker and the number one in bank assurance.
Further information about CIC may be obtained at www.cic.fr