Malta establishes diplomatic relations with Africa’s second smallest country

Malta has established diplomatic relations with São Tomé and Príncipe, an island State of 200,000 people

Foreign Minister Carmelo Abela signing the agreement establishing diplomatic relations with Sao Tome and Principe
Foreign Minister Carmelo Abela signing the agreement establishing diplomatic relations with Sao Tome and Principe

Malta has found common ground with the island State of São Tomé and Príncipe, the second smallest African country.

On the fringes of the 73rd session of the UN general assembly in New York, Foreign Minister Carmelo Abela signed the protocol establishing diplomatic relations with the African country situated in the Gulf of Guinea.

São Tomé and Príncipe, with a population of just over 200,000, was one of very few countries with which Malta still did not have official diplomatic relations.

“This step forward is in line with Malta’s increased interest in Africa and opens up new possibilities for the benefit of both countries and peoples,” Abela said. 

In talks with his counterpart, Abela said climate change was a theme of common interest with the African nation.

The ministers also discussed Malta’s candidature for a non-permanent seat of the UN Security Council for the years 2023-24.