US Ambassador Seeks to Strengthen Malta-US Relations Across Trade and Investment

US Ambassador to Malta Somers Farkas has outlined her commitment to strengthening cooperation between the US and Malta across trade, investment, security, and law enforcement.

Speaking following a ceremony where she presented her credentials to President Myriam Spiteri Debono, the Virginia-born ambassador emphasised her vision for deeper bilateral ties. "With our outstanding US Embassy team, we will continue to strengthen our alliance by showcasing American and Maltese excellence, fostering economic opportunities, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations," Farkas stated.

A former model, philanthropist, and member of President Donald Trump's Commission on White House Fellowships during his first term, Farkas expressed her eagerness to work with the Government and people of Malta and Gozo to achieve a shared vision for the future. She also shared her "deep faith," noting her anticipation of celebrating mass with the Maltese Catholic community.

The ambassador's appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Malta-US relations which has recently gone from strength to strength. Recently, Jesmond Gatt, Chairman of the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) and CEO of Malta Government Investments, received the prestigious Insurance Federation of New York's (IFNY) Free Enterprise Award in New York in recognition of Malta's growing influence in the global insurance sector.

Malta has achieved a remarkable 70% economic growth since 2015, compared to the Eurozone's 13%, with financial services accounting for 98.2% of all inward foreign direct investment. The country has established itself as a hub for fund managers, insurance firms, fintech startups and family offices, positioning itself as a strategic bridge between Europe and North America.

There have been recent developments that have strengthened transatlantic connectivity between the two nations including the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) opening a New York office due to unprecedented demand and Delta Air Lines announcing the first direct flights from JFK to Malta International Airport in history.

In conclusion, Malta's forward-looking regulatory framework and strategic positioning offer US businesses attractive opportunities to expand their European reach and access the EU's 450 million consumers.