India–Malta agree to deepen cooperation in ICT, healthcare & renewable energy (2026)

India and Malta held the 4th round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Valletta (Malta) on 27 March 2026, where both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in key sectors like ICT, healthcare, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and education.

Key Highlights

Consultations co-chaired by:

Sibi George (Secretary West, MEA)

Christopher Cutajar

Both countries reviewed:

Entire spectrum of bilateral relations

Agreed to expand cooperation in:

Information & Communication Technology (ICT)

Healthcare

Renewable Energy

Pharmaceuticals & Education

Focus on:

Trade & investment

Tourism

Technology & innovation

Maritime cooperation

Also discussed:

Regional and global issues

Cooperation in multilateral forums

Economic & Strategic Context

Talks held in light of:

India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) progress

Aim to:

Boost economic and commercial relations

Defence & security cooperation also discussed with Malta’s armed forces

Additional Key Facts

India and Malta:

Established diplomatic relations in 1965

Celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties in 2025

Malta:

CapitalValletta

President: Myriam Spiteri Debono

Prime Minister: Robert Abela

Currency: Euro (€)

Located in the Mediterranean Sea

Member of the European Union (EU)

Both countries are:

Members of the Commonwealth

Malta hosted:

Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2005 & 2015

Maritime cooperation is important due to Malta’s:

Strategic location in global sea routes