On 17th May 2023, His Excellency Mr. André Spiteri, the Ambassador of the Republic of Malta, and Mr. Toshiyuki Kosugi, President of the Japan Institute for Overseas Investment (JOI), signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the aim of deepening economic relations between Malta and Japan.

The Japan Institute for Overseas Investment has aim of contributing to the enhancement of economic relations between Japan and other countries, through the facilitation of the development of Japanese direct investment through activities such as research and analysis of information useful for Japanese investors.

After the signature of the MOU, Ambassador Spiteri and Mr. Kosugi exchanged views on the recent positive developments in the relations between Malta and Japan, including the opening of a Maltese Embassy in Tokyo and the upcoming establishment of a Japanese Embassy in Malta.

Ambassador Spiteri also recalled that Malta will be making a significant investment in its participation in EXPO 2025 Osaka. In this regard, it was noted that the Maltese Pavilion at the EXPO, will offer Malta a unique opportunity to showcase its credentials as a quality destination for tourism and foreign direct investment.

The MOU signed between the Embassy and JOI will have an important role in these promotional initiatives as it provides a framework for the holding of joint seminars and an enhanced exchange of information about the potential offered by Malta in terms of foreign direct investment. As a result, Ambassador Spiteri and Mr. Kosugi agreed to work closely towards the successful implementation of the MOU.