PN calls for “open and transparent” discussions on China MoU

The Nationalist Party is in favour of any “reasonable initiative” that could lead to more foreign investment in Malta but it has called on government to allow the Opposition the opportunity to discuss these initiatives in an “open and transparent” manner.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in the opulent Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

“The Nationalist Party is in favour of any reasonable initiative that could lead to attract more foreign investment to our country,” the statement read. “And it hopes the signing of this new agreement proves fruitful for the interest of the country's economy.”

“We also hope to be given the opportunity to enter into open and transparent discussion about the initiatives being taken for the growth of foreign investment in China, as well as the strengthening of relations between the two countries.”

The most revealing aspect in the MoU is the intention to negotiate a modern Air Service Agreement in order to replace the one signed in 1997. The agreement should give a boost to civil air transport and encourage airlines and air cargo carriers to consider the establishment of direct flights between points in their respective territories.

Malta and China agreed to collaborate on various strategic sectors, including energy and civil aviation, in a memorandum of understanding that was signed in Beijing.