The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Tourism (MFT) is responsible for the formulation and implementation of Malta’s foreign policy, ensuring coherence across the Government. The Ministry is also responsible for relations with the European Union and international organisations and institutions, representing Malta’s interests on a range of issues such as economic, political and security matters.  As a small island nation situated in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta recognizes the significance of engaging with the global community to promote its interests, safeguard national security, and contribute to international peace and cooperation.

MFT works to develop and maintain positive relations with other countries and international organizations, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation on issues of common concern. This is also achieved by means of Malta’s 42 diplomatic missions across the world, which are deemed as crucial in achieving foreign policy goals.

As from April 2022, the Ministry is also responsible for the promotion of trade and for international trade and cooperation. MFT works to promote trade, investment opportunities and facilitate commerce in order to increase prosperity, well-being and economic growth.

MFT is responsible for the provision of consular services to Maltese citizens living or travelling abroad, including assistance in emergencies, issuance of passports and visas.

MFT is also politically responsible for the tourism sector on a holistic level, and  tourism education. These sectors are of huge importance in order to strengthen the tourism product of the Maltese Islands. Significantly, the Ministry plays a vital role in the enhancing the importance of travel and hospitality to the Maltese Islands. Primarily, it pilots the importance of infrastructure development, policy formulation and sustainable practices. The Ministry also collaborates with various stakeholders to keep on strengthening one of Malta’s leading economic sectors.