Ministers Ian Borg And Silvio Schembri Open First Maltese-Libyan Trade and Export Forum Since 2012

Apr 26 2024

As the first Maltese-Libyan Trade and Export Forum was being inaugurated, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ian Borg stated that a thriving Libya is crucial in order to have a prosperous and vital Mediterranean.

Minister Borg stressed Malta’s commitment to supporting Libya in it’s pursuit for capital gain and economic growth with these sentiments of cooperation between the two countries also being shared by Libyan Ministers of Economy and Trade, Mohammed Al-Hweij, and Marine Wealth, Adel Sultan.

The forum was attended by multiple representatives from all kinds of sectors including fisheries, banking, insurance and finance. Minister Borg also highlighted the importance of Libya to Maltese economy as it’s largest export partner in the region.

Borg also applauded the success of Maltese enterprises in forging strong commercial ties with Libya over the years and hoped for continued collaboration in sectors vital for both nations’ economies and welcomed Libya’s decision to diversify their economy and not be fully dependent on oil.

Minister for the Economy Silvio Schembri highlighted the mutual goal of bolstering commercial ties and transforming challenges into opportunities. He emphasized the need for Maltese businesses to feel confident investing in Libya, mirroring investments made within Malta.

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Għaqda Soċjo-Mużikali Anici Ħal Qormi HQ Officially Purchased

Apr 26 2024

The Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government has successfully completed the acquisition process for the premises of the Anici Socio-Musical Society in Qormi. These premises now form part of a collection of seven buildings also occupied by various other Musical Societies. These include the premises of the Marija Regina Musical Society Marsa A.D.1977, the Stella Levantina Musical Society in Attard, the Circolo San Giuseppe Filarmonika Sagra Familja in Kalkara, the Santa Liena Band’s Każin Society Duke of Connaught’s Own in Birkirkara, the Antoine de Paule Musical Society in Żejtun, the Stella Maris Musical Society in Sliema, and the headquarters of the San Pietru fil-Ktajjen Musical Society in Birżebbuġa. These properties, now under government ownership, serve as the main operating venues for these societies.

Additionally, the Ministry, through the Maltese Arts Council, is currently negotiating with the private owners of four premises belonging to other Musical Societies. These twelve societies were at significant risk of eviction due to legal issues concerning pre-1995 rent laws.

Minister Owen Bonnici highlighted the Government’s proactive efforts to preserve these musical societies, which play a vital role in Maltese cultural festivities in each community. He stressed the substantial benefits that Maltese feasts bring to the country and emphasized the importance of these Musical Societies continuing to operate and remain accessible to their respective communities.

Minister Bonnici reaffirmed the Government’s decision to intervene and purchase the clubs at imminent risk of eviction, considering it a crucial step in enhancing the cultural sector, especially after UNESCO’s recent recognition of the Maltese Feast as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Albert Marshall, Executive Chairperson of the Maltese Arts Council, expressed that through this government purchasing process, volunteer leaders can now focus more on their cultural mission at the heart of the communities they serve.

The premises of the Anici Socio-Musical Society in Qormi were acquired with a total investment of €700,000.

Overall, the Government expects to invest a total of €19 million, including the amount already invested in acquiring the eight properties mentioned and the funds to be disbursed once the final contracts for the remaining four properties are finalized.

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Farsons Beers Win Big At ‘Oscars Of Brewing Industry’

Apr 26 2024

Farsons beers Cisk Excel and Blue Label were honoUred at the International Brewing & Cider Awards, known as the ‘Oscars of the brewing industry’.

Cisk Excel won Bronze in the Lager 2.9 to 4.4 percent ABV category, while Blue Label also won Bronze in the Ale 4.5 to 4.9 percent ABV category.

The judging took place in Manchester between March 19th and 21st, where a panel of 38 experts blind tasted hundreds of submissions from around the world.

This competition is renowned for its fair and rigorous judging process, ensuring each beer and cider is evaluated based on quality and commercial value. Simonds Farsons Cisk plc expressed immense pride in the awards, attributing them to the dedication of their brewing team.

Notably, Blue Label’s award marked a historic moment, being Farsons’ first recognition in the competition since the 1950s. The company’s commitment to quality was further acknowledged in 2021 when Cisk 0.0 received Gold.

Michael Farrugia highlighted the significance of the awards in reinforcing the brewery’s reputation and international growth efforts. Ruth Evans MBE and Rob McCaig, directors of the awards, emphasized the exceptional quality of entries and the challenge in selecting winners among such stiff competition.

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Mater Dei’s Cardiology & Diabetes Departments Declared Centres Of Excellence

Apr 26 2024

The Ministry of Health and Active Aging expressed satisfaction with the recognition bestowed upon the Cardiology and Diabetes Departments at Mater Dei Hospital, acknowledging them as Centers of Excellence.

The Cardiology Department earned acclaim for its adoption of the iVAC 2L technology by PulseCath, a renowned international leader in cardiovascular innovation. This acknowledgment underscores the department’s dedication to advancing medical practices and enhancing patient care, particularly during procedures concerning heart valves or cardiac arteries.

PulseCath commended the Cardiology Department for its proficiency in executing intricate procedures, emphasizing that the department’s commitment to expertise, innovation, and patient well-being has not only bolstered its reputation but also significantly contributed to elevating standards in patient care.

Similarly, the Diabetes Department, housed within the Department of Internal Medicine, received recognition from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) for its provision of comprehensive services and multidisciplinary education. Collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals ensure cohesive care delivery and educational initiatives.

Mater Dei’s Diabetes Center conducts vital research on diabetes, serving to enhance local awareness and further the understanding and management of the disease.

The recognition bestowed upon these departments reflects the stringent standards and criteria set by the IDF, with only 22 other globally recognized centers to date. The IDF anticipates that Mater Dei’s Diabetes Center will further augment its capabilities to provide high-quality diabetes care and education within their respective regions as a valued member of the IDF’s global network of Centers.

During a visit to the Diabetes and Cardiology Departments at Mater Dei Hospital, Minister Jo Etienne Abela conveyed gratitude to the professionals for their dedication and commended them, along with other departments, for their ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional care. Minister Abela expressed confidence that these advancements will yield significant benefits for the people of Gozo and Malta.

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