After being present in Malta since February, French ambassador to Malta Béatrice le Fraper du Hellen expressed how her first impression of the island was changed as soon as she arrived here and her views about how the two countries can strengthen their relationship and learn from each other.
Béatrice le Fraper du Hellen was based in New York as counsellor and legal advisor to the French permanent representation to the United Nations before being stationed in Malta. Prior to coming to Malta, she expected a laid-back lifestyle, but was instead surprised at Malta's fast-paced and thriving business sector.
The ambassador stated that business relations between France and Malta are very good and the countries cooperate closely across various sectors, particularly the financial services sector. She further stated that her role in Malta primarily consists of facilitating relations between the two countries on the business, political and cultural level.
Malta can benefit from France's expertise and advanced position within industrial innovation and alternative energy amongst other sectors, whereas France stands to learn from Malta's vast experience in doing business with Mediterranean and North African countries. At the same time, both countries' economies have common ground and are similar to each other.
The ambassador referred to the tourism and service industries as being key economical drivers for both countries and pointed out that after Marseille was Capital of Culture in 2013, it will soon be Valletta's turn in 2018. Béatrice le Fraper du Hellen is striving to create more structural partnerships between Maltese and French authorities as well as encourage exchanges between the two countries' educational institutions.
She believes that in order to do this successfully, business communications need to take into account the specific country's reality. In Malta's case, small and medium enterprises need to be the focus. She also acknowledged the supporting role of the French-Maltese Chamber of Commerce and the Alliance Française in Malta in helping her succeed.
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