Malta Hosts Global Innovation Forum 2024

Oct 28 2024

Malta is set to make headlines as it welcomes over 100 delegates from 194 countries for the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Global Innovation Forum 2024. This three-day conference, taking place at the heart of the Mediterranean, aims to foster collaboration on digital innovation and address the pressing challenges facing digital ecosystems today.

The theme for this year’s forum is “The Digital Future for the Good of All,” which aligns with Malta’s Vision 2050 strategy. This initiative underscores the nation’s commitment to advancing its position in digital innovation and showcases its achievements in creating a sustainable digital landscape.

The forum was officially inaugurated by President Myriam Spiteri Debono, alongside Minister for Economy, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Projects Silvio Schembri, and Dr. Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau. Minister Schembri highlighted Malta’s rich history of resilience and innovation, stating, “The fortified walls of Valletta, designed centuries ago, represent not only military foresight but a timeless spirit of resilience and preparedness that we continue to embody today.”

A significant point of pride for Malta is its pioneering role in the digital sphere. The country was the first globally to implement a legal framework for virtual financial assets, later adopted by the European Union, establishing itself as a leader in digital innovation. The Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA) and the forthcoming Digital Innovation Hub (DiHubMT) are set to further bolster the nation’s commitment to empowering startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) in adopting advanced technologies.

Malta’s impressive strides in digital infrastructure have resulted in a 100% availability of digital public services, comprehensive 5G coverage, and high-speed internet access. According to the latest Eurobarometer survey, 80% of the Maltese population reports that digitization has positively impacted their daily lives, surpassing the EU average of 73%.

As the forum progresses, it is clear that Malta is not just a picturesque destination but a forward-thinking country determined to shape a prosperous and inclusive digital future for all. Through collaboration and innovation, Malta aims to position itself as a hub for digital advancements that benefit not only its citizens but the global community as well.

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Firefighter Reportedly Behind Gozo Channel Bomb Threat

Oct 28 2024

Marvin Tabone, a 43-year-old employee of the Civil Protection Department from Mqabba, was arrested for allegedly making bomb threats that disrupted the Gozo Channel ferry service over the weekend.

He faces multiple charges, including causing fear of violence and misuse of electronic communications, but he has pleaded not guilty.

The situation escalated when the Qawra police referred the threats to anti-terrorism units around 3 PM on Saturday, leading to panic at the Ċirkewwa and Mġarr ferry terminals.

Officers described the scene as chaotic. Within two and a half hours, police traced Tabone’s phone number and located him leaving church after attending his son’s confirmation ceremony. He cooperated with authorities, handing over his phone and was permitted to attend his son’s confirmation dinner.

In court, his defence attorney, Franco Debono, emphasised Tabone’s stable employment and clean record. Although the prosecution opposed bail due to the potential impact of the threats—disrupting travel plans and causing delays for patients—the magistrate, Rachel Montebello, granted it.

Tabone must pay a €3,000 deposit, provide a personal guarantee of the same amount, check in at the Żurrieq Police Station three times a week, and cannot contact prosecution witnesses.

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Venice To Double Tourist Entry Fee Days In 2025

Oct 28 2024

In 2025, Venice will double the number of days it charges tourists an entrance fee after a trial run of the system last year.

The initiative aims to spread out tourist arrivals, reducing crowding and protecting the city’s infrastructure. Starting April 18 through July 27, day-trippers visiting from Friday to Sunday and on public holidays will pay €5 if they book four days in advance, or €10 for late bookings.

Visitors over 14 must book online and present a QR code for random inspections, with fines for those without tickets. Exemptions apply to residents, overnight guests, students, and those visiting relatives in Venice.

The fee, introduced for 29 days in 2024, generated around €2.4 million but faced criticism from local officials who argue it fails to manage tourist flows.

Some critics, including city councillor Giovanni Andrea Martini, say that raising the fee would turn Venice into a “museum.”

While mayor Luigi Brugnaro awaits a full budget analysis, Venice officials assert the city is leading global efforts against over-tourism, as UNESCO has raised concerns about mass tourism and climate change threatening Venice’s cultural heritage.

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Injured Honey Buzzard Rescued In Mdina

Oct 28 2024

The Malta Ranger Unit were in right place at the right time to rescue an injured Honey Buzzard in Mdina.

The rangers were out on patrol in Rabat and got a call from a member of the public that a large bird had been spotted below the bastions.

The bird, which has a wing-span of over 120cm, was retrieved from dense vegetation, but it is reported too early to know what injuries it sustained and why it wasn’t flying.

The bird was handed over to BirdLife Malta and will be taken to the Malta government vet who will examine it.

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