CPA EMEA, the Europe, Middle East and African regional group of CPA Associates International, has held its annual general meeting in Malta, hosted by local CPAAI member FACT Group.

More than 50 international participants attended this year’s annual conference at the Hilton Malta with a varied technical and social programme. Finance Minister Tonio Fenech opened proceedings by highlighting Malta’s progress in the finance sector.

CPAAI International chairman Frank Betts, north American region chairman Bernard Raden, and CPA EMEA chairman Hans van den Bessellaar were present.

The conference featured a technical seminar presented by world renowned and creative thinker Edward de Bono themed ‘Lateral thinking and six thinking hats overview for the accounting industry’.

Delegates visited Mdina, Valletta, Gozo and Comino during their stay. Foreign Minister Tonio Borg gave a closing address at a gala dinner at the Sacra Infermeria.

CPAAI has been growing since it was established in 1957 to evolve into a worldwide association of independent accounting and business consulting firms with nearly 150 members located in more than 60 countries.

CPAAI members provide a full range of accounting and business advisory services to many successful businesses, government authorities and individuals.

Malta’s CPAAI member, FACT Group, is a multidisciplinary and forward-looking organisation established in 1998. The firm offers a wide range of professional services to local and international corporates and private clients.

FACT Group also provides specialist expatriate services including immigration, residence and relocation services to Malta. Managing director Jesmond Pace is a director and treasurer on the CPA EMEA board.