During a site visit to the Quarter Mile Complex in Ħal Far, Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima, reviewed the ongoing works as part of the redevelopment of the facility. The visit provided an overview of the progress being made, including the removal of the old surface previously used by the former Quarter Mile facility, among other construction works.

“This infrastructure is crucial to eventually establishing a proper racetrack,” Minister Grima explained. He noted that during the current phase of works, it was determined that the existing foundations were unsuitable for the planned facilities. “As a result, work is being carried out to lay the necessary new foundations. It’s clear that significant progress is being made, and I look forward to delivering yet another promise to the sporting public and motorsport enthusiasts.” the Minister added.

Minister Grima reviewed the official documentation maintained to record the project’s progress. He also observed ongoing concrete surfacing works for what will eventually become the racetrack. At present, robust perimeter walls are being constructed in line with international safety standards to ensure the protection of drivers during approved events hosted at the facility, as sanctioned by the Planning Authority.

#MaltaDaily

Prime Minister Robert Abela Highlights Youth, Peace, and Reform in Address to Council of Europe. During his address to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, Prime Minister Robert Abela placed young people, peace, and institutional reform at the forefront of Malta’s vision for its current Presidency of the Council, which continues until November.

Dr Abela emphasised that Malta views youth not merely as the future but as today’s leaders, actively driving meaningful change. He outlined Malta’s commitment to amplifying young voices through initiatives such as the Youth Advisory Forum functioning as a Youth Cabinet the introduction of Vote16, which lowered the voting age to 16, and the nomination of the youngest-ever European Commissioner, entrusted with the youth portfolio. Looking ahead, Malta will host the Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth this October, providing a key opportunity for young people and policymakers to co-create a youth-led democratic future.

Turning to international affairs, Prime Minister Abela underscored the vital role of the Council of Europe in today’s complex global landscape, particularly amid the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. “Global challenges require global efforts,” he stated, reaffirming Malta’s role as a bridge among the Council’s 46 member states. He stressed that no nation is too small to contribute meaningfully to global peace and stability.

“We must safeguard peace that upholds the values of humanity,” he declared, echoing the Council’s foundational principles: human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Dr Abela urged international action: “We cannot remain silent in the face of human tragedy. The international community must come together to stop the bloodshed and ensure that international law is respected.”

The Prime Minister also reviewed significant domestic reforms implemented by his government, many in close collaboration with the Council of Europe and its expert bodies, including the Venice Commission, GRECO, and MONEYVAL. These reforms, he noted, have enhanced institutional integrity in Malta. Key changes include improvements to the justice system particularly in judicial appointments strengthening the Office of the Ombudsman and the Permanent Commission Against Corruption, and a constitutional amendment requiring a two-thirds parliamentary majority to appoint the President of the Republic. Additionally, the restructuring of the Office of the Attorney General has bolstered its independence and operational effectiveness.

Further reforms cited by Dr Abela include legislative measures to protect journalists, including Malta’s adoption of the European Anti-SLAPP Directive, as well as progressive legal changes such as the introduction of femicide into the Criminal Code. He also drew attention to initiatives aimed at empowering women, especially in the political sphere.

In conclusion, Dr Abela reaffirmed Malta’s deep-rooted commitment to the principles of the Council of Europe. “We regard this institution as a natural home for the shared aspirations of humanity peace, respect for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law,” he said. He reiterated that dialogue and multilateralism remain cornerstones of Malta’s foreign policy, with the country continuing to act as a consistent and principled voice for regional and global stability.

#MaltaDaily