The relationship between the political parties governing Malta and China is an integral part of the relationship between the two countries, according to the Communist Party of China's Beijing committee secretary.

Guo Jinlong - a former mayor of Beijing who is also part of the 25-member Central Politburo of the Communist Party of China - is leading a party delegation on a visit to Malta.

The delegation made a courtesy call on President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca before moving on to the Auberge de Castille to hold a meeting with Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi and Foreign Minister George Vella were also present.

The press were invited to follow the introductory comments, and in his own opening remarks, Dr Muscat welcomed the strong ties between the two countries, and said that he was pleased that these have grown even stronger over the past two years, highlighting the partial acquisition of Enemalta by a Chinese state-owned company as an example.

On his part, Mr Guo said that while the two countries were geographically distant, there was a "sincere friendship" between the Maltese and the Chinese.

After observing that there had been a breakthrough in Malta-China relations in recent years, he said that he believed that the relationship between the party he forms part of and the Labour Party led by Dr Muscat was an integral part of relations between the two countries.

He continued to elaborate on this point before the press were asked to leave, and the meeting continued in private.

(Pictures by Jonathan Borg)