Finance Minister Edward Scicluna today hit out at criticism over recent investments in Malta,  such as those of Huawei, Barts and the American University of Malta.

Professer Scicluna said that people need to look at the bigger picture, saying every valid investment is in the interest of the country.

Huawei have not come here to “sunbathe and swim” Professor Scicluna said, although he was unable to quantify how much the company will be investing in Malta when asked repeatedly.

This week, the government signed a strategic agreement with China-based ICT global leader Huawei which will see 5G technology tested in Malta. A Huawei regional office was also inaugurated at SmartCity.

He said it is “becoming ridiculous” that people keep questioning such investments, saying “we have to be positive.”

Professor Scicluna questioned why people are “siding” with the European Commission when it comes to seeing whether the security of supply agreement for the ElectroGas plant will be approved.

The Finance Minister said this government is turning to Asia and Africa to seek investment opportunities, whilst the previous government was more EU-centric in its outlook.

This government has no prejudices because people are “black” or “their eyes are stretched.”

The Africa of today is changing and huge opportunities exist for Maltese companies, he said.

Greece

On Greece, Professor Scicluna said the media is falling for the caricature of Germany being the bully and Greece the victim.

He said the whole eurogroup was united and of the same mind when it came to Greece.

The Finance Minister said if the bailout formula does not succeed, it does not mean it is the troika’s fault but rather Greece’s.