As we all learn as we progress through life, there is no such thing as a free lunch. We also soon learn that an essential purchase is a magnifying glass in order to read the infamous small print.

Malta is at present enjoying an abundance of free lunches by courtesy of our Dear Comrades the Chinese. Such is the government’s confidence that the Memorandums of Understanding appear to be hurriedly signed and sealed as money flashes in front of its eyes.

How wonderful to have such trusted friends who are willing to inject some very necessary cash, so soon, into the Maltese economy. Pre-election promises do cost money.

Is it possible that, just maybe, our friends have ulterior motives? Am I being too much of a sceptic to imagine, even for a brief moment, that they have an eye on our potential oil production? Could Malta possibly be their gateway to Europe? Could they be procuring Malta’s vote at the EU? Do they really want to have a major say in governing our economy?

There is still a very real element of hardness in this vast nation. Human rights are blatantly abused. Fear of speaking out is still very much a reality.

While times, of course, do move on, it is prudent to remember that leopards never lose their spots.

China is a dominant nation looking at pursuing its interests in other countries. However, most such countries are only committing a mere percentage in comparison to Malta which appears to be sacrificing its birthright.

I sincerely hope I will be proved wrong. Time will tell.