Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tonio Borg yesterday held meetings with the President of Syria and the Syrian Foreign Affairs Minister as part of his visit to three Middle Eastern countries: Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. The talks focused on the political collaboration between the two countries and how the bilateral relations can be further improved on issues which affect the security and stability of the Mediterranean region.

Dr Borg signed an agreement with his counterpart, Minister Walid Almoallem with the aim to enhance cooperation between the two countries on issues such as peace and security in the Mediterranean.

The two states agreed to enter into discussions on different political issues, among them, the Union for the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the dialogue between Europe and the Arab League.

Later on, Dr Borg held talks with the President of Syria Dr Bashar al Assad.

Outline of bilateral relations between Malta and Syria

Diplomatic relations between Malta and Syria started in 1970. An agreement was signed back in the 80’s for both states to cooperate on issues such as tourism and air transport. Another agreement was signed for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion which was signed in 1999 and ratified in October 2000. In November 2002, both sides agreed to cooperate on Environmental Protection, which was then ratified in July 2002.

Syria has a population of 20 million citizens and its gross domestic product is e34 billion. Imports between 2004 and 2008 remained on the same level, reaching e205,000 in 2008. Exports reached their highest levels in 2006 with e406,000. Stone and construction materials are the most imported items from Syria.

In Syria, Malta is represented by the Consul General Ahmad Houboubati who was made Consul in 1994 and Consul General in 1999, and by the Consul of Aleppo Toufic Bonja.