Computer chip giant STMicroelectronics has fully recovered from the crisis it faced in 2009 with the results this year surpassing those of previous years, according to the company’s managing director Eugenio Re.

The Malta plant, which employs over 1,500 people, exports about 715 million pieces of electronic devices a year, Mr Re said yesterday while welcoming President George Abela, who toured the Kirkop plant together with Finance Minister Tonio Fenech.

Company chief operations officer Alain Dutheil thanked the government for its commitment and help over the years, especially in the last months. He also thanked Dr Abela for “the interest and involvement” he had shown at the height of discussions between management and the government.

Dr Abela, formerly an industrial relations lawyer, had mediated in discussions on the future of the company in Malta.

The President pointed out that it was the first visit to the company by a head of state. He praised ST for its corporate social responsibility, high rate of customer satisfaction and for allowing its employees to progress.

The plant, which produces high-value-added electronic chips, faced a stalemate two months ago after employees at first refused to accept a set of austerity measures linked to a government aid package. Talks with the management and the government led the employees to eventually vote in favour of the measures.

Among other things, the plant produces a tiny chip, just a few millimetres long, designed specifically for diabetics. It is placed under the skin and monitors the insulin levels in the blood.

It also developed a chip used in the interactive and popular game console Nintendo Wii and which has now found its way to the iPhone.

The microelectronics company is not only the largest private sector employer but also Malta’s leading exporter.

Last year, the multi-national company downsized its workforce in Malta by about 400 employees after facing worldwide difficulties. There were also fears for the company’s future.