Malta was the only EU country to experience trade growth with China during the economically volatile period of 2009, with a year on year growth of 9.7 per cent.

China's vice-Minister for Commerce Zhong Shan was yesterday in Malta for high level trade and economic discussions with Finance Minister Tonio Fenech.

They spoke about their growing trade relationship and ways to encourage more economic cooperation between the two countries.

On May 1, China will be organising the Shangai Expo, which would include Malta Day on May 14.

This would give businessmen from both countries the opportunity to continue fostering a strong relationship and exploring ways of future cooperation, Mr Fenech said.

Malta was a platform that could help Chinese businesses export into Europe, he added.

China and Malta would continue to explore economic opportunities such as updating their double taxation agreements.

Ms Shan said the two-hour meeting was productive and they agreed on ways to encourage investment between both countries.

The Chinese delegation insisted Mr Shan would not take any questions by journalists during the joint press conference.