Here’s How The People of Malta Would Solve Traffic

Dec 5 2024

The latest public consultation on Malta’s transport future has sparked a few innovative proposals from the public:

The people’s proposals

Among the suggestions were financial incentives for 18-year-olds who forgo driving licenses for three years, aimed at easing traffic congestion while supporting young people in purchasing their first property. Another proposal focused on making school public transport mandatory for children, with fines imposed on those who opt out, to reduce traffic during peak hours.

The next public consultation

The next public consultation, titled “Better Organising Transport in Our Country,” is set to take place on Wednesday, 11th December, at 6 PM at the Orpheum Theatre in Gżira. Open to all, the event will feature discussions led by Transport Minister Chris Bonett, focusing on refining Malta’s transport policies.

Six-pillar approach

Minister Bonett’s initial consultation outlined six key pillars. These include Sustainable Mobility, promoting eco-friendly options like a National Cycling Strategy and “walking school buses”; a 24-Hour Economy to ease traffic during peak hours; and Vehicle Management, with initiatives like the Employee Transportation Deduction Act. Parking Solutions will see new park-and-ride facilities and expanded public parking spaces, while Enhanced Public Transport promises updated bus routes and better service coverage. Lastly, Improved Roadworks Coordination aims to streamline infrastructure projects and minimise disruptions.

These proposals signal a forward-thinking approach to addressing Malta’s traffic and transport challenges. Attendees at the upcoming consultation will have a chance to shape the nation’s transport future further. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard!

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Mercedes-Benz Shows All Electric Pope-Mobile

Dec 5 2024

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its first all-electric Popemobile, delivering the custom-designed vehicle to Pope Francis ahead of the 2025 Jubilee, an event anticipated to attract millions to Rome.

Based on the G-Class EV, the Popemobile was meticulously handcrafted by teams in Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome to meet the Pope’s specific requirements while ensuring emission-free travel.

The electric Popemobile features a height-adjustable, swivelling central seat to enhance visibility and interaction during public appearances.

A hardtop provides protection from the elements, while a redesigned single-piece rear door and a pearl-white finish continue the iconic Popemobile aesthetic.

Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius emphasised the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating, “With this Popemobile, we are sending a clear message of commitment to electro-mobility and decarbonisation.”

This marks a continuation of the automaker’s nearly century-long relationship with the Vatican, dating back to the 1980s introduction of the first G-Class Popemobile.

Built on the G580 platform, the vehicle integrates Mercedes-Benz’s EQ electric technology with bespoke modifications to suit papal needs. The electric Popemobile is set to make its official public debut during the 2025 Jubilee, symbolising a blend of tradition, innovation, and environmental consciousness.

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Virgin Voyages 1st Cruise Line To Accept Bitcoin As Payment

Dec 5 2024

Virgin Voyages has become the first cruise line to accept Bitcoin (BTC) as payment, marking a milestone in the travel industry’s adoption of cryptocurrency.

Customers can now use Bitcoin to purchase the company’s newly launched Annual Pass, priced at $120,000.

The pass offers access to a sea terrace for an entire year along with exclusive perks, targeting younger, tech-savvy, and crypto-enthusiast travellers.

The move aligns with Virgin’s broader legacy of embracing innovation, says founder Richard Branson, who previously championed cryptocurrency through Virgin Galactic, which began accepting Bitcoin for space travel in 2013.

However, Branson has yet to comment on whether other cryptocurrencies might also be integrated into Virgin Voyages’ payment system.

This decision reflects the growing acceptance of Bitcoin in various industries, with 2024 seeing an uptick in crypto adoption by airlines, hotels, and travel platforms.

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Ian Borg Opens 31st OSCE Ministerial Council In Malta

Dec 5 2024

Today, Malta is hosting the largest international conference in its history at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali, welcoming over 50 Foreign Affairs Ministers from around the world to the 31st OSCE Ministerial Council. This event underscores Malta’s growing leadership on the global stage as it chairs the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) throughout 2024, a role it was entrusted with by member states.

The OSCE, uniting 57 countries, addresses not only security but also critical issues like press freedom and cybersecurity. Notably, both Ukraine and Russia are participating in this summit, reflecting the gravity of the ongoing geopolitical crises.

Deputy Prime Minister and OSCE Chairperson Ian Borg opened the council by highlighting Malta’s longstanding dedication to peace and dialogue, recalling its historic role in diplomacy, including the 1989 Bush-Gorbachev summit held on its shores. Borg condemned Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, calling it a systemic threat to European security, and urged Russia to withdraw from Ukrainian territory to pave the way for a just and lasting peace.

Borg also addressed internal challenges within the OSCE, such as the absence of senior leadership, unresolved budget issues, and uncertainties about future chairmanships. Emphasizing a broader crisis in multilateralism, he reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to revitalizing the OSCE under the theme “Strengthening Resilience, Enhancing Security.” Priorities include conflict resolution, supporting Ukraine, interfaith dialogue, and addressing climate and cyber threats.

Despite limited resources, Borg praised the OSCE’s field missions and tools for regional stability but stressed the need for member states to provide resources and leadership. While progress has been made on leadership appointments, Borg urged swift action on budgetary and governance issues to secure the OSCE’s future. He concluded by calling for collective responsibility to uphold the OSCE’s mission during this critical juncture.

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