Three Diplomats Present Credentials to President of Malta

Nov 29 2024

President Myriam Spiteri Debono welcomed two new non-resident Ambassadors and a non-resident High Commissioner at the Presidential Palace in Valletta, where they formally presented their credentials.

The diplomats include Lauri Bambus, Ambassador of Estonia; Christophe Paul Schiltz, Ambassador of Luxembourg; and Fredrick Lusambili Matwang’a, High Commissioner of Kenya.

During their meeting, Ambassador Bambus discussed recent geopolitical developments with President Spiteri Debono, highlighting Estonia’s perspectives on global issues. Ambassador Schiltz explored the shared values between Malta and Luxembourg, emphasising both nations’ active roles within the European Union.

High Commissioner Matwang’a focused on opportunities for deeper collaboration between Malta and Kenya, particularly in sectors such as maritime affairs, tourism, and the blue economy. He also stressed the importance of strengthening ties within the Commonwealth and the United Nations.

President Myriam Spiteri Debono congratulated the three diplomats on their new roles and encouraged them to visit Malta regularly to build on the existing partnerships. She expressed Malta’s commitment to nurturing its relationships with Estonia, Luxembourg, and Kenya.

These meetings underscore Malta’s role in fostering international collaboration through diplomacy and shared values.

#MaltaDaily

‘Festa Family Tal-Milied’: A Family Celebration This December

Nov 29 2024

Local families are being called for a special celebration on the 7th and 8th of December as ‘Festa Familja tal-Milied’ (Christmas Family Celebration) will be being held in Ta’ Qali.

The festivities will include everything from games for children and their guardians to musical spectacles, and not to mention food and drink!

The feast will be taking place in the Ta Qali National Park Concert Zone between noon and 1700hrs.

Tag someone to go with you!

#MaltaDaily

MEIA Welcomes Malta Film Commission Ministry Shift

Nov 29 2024

The Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) has responded to the recent announcement of the Malta Film Commission’s transfer from the Ministry of Tourism to the Ministry of National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government. MEIA expressed surprise at the decision, which followed shortly after their previous statement, but views the shift as a potentially positive development for the industry.

The organisation welcomed the move, citing the opportunity for a more unified approach to the governance of Malta’s film sector. “By aligning the Malta Film Commission with the Ministry of National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, we anticipate a more integrated strategy that can better support the diverse needs of the industry,” MEIA stated. The association hopes this transition will reduce fragmentation within the sector and encourage collaboration among stakeholders.

However, MEIA reiterated its concerns regarding governance, transparency, communication, and accountability within the Malta Film Commission, emphasising the need for these elements to build trust among industry stakeholders. The association also called for addressing the issues raised in the National Audit Office (NAO) report.

MEIA expressed its willingness to collaborate with Minister Owen Bonnici, highlighting his leadership’s importance in addressing current challenges and implementing reforms. The association sees open dialogue and collaboration as critical to overcoming obstacles and creating a sustainable framework for film production in Malta.

Additionally, MEIA underlined the need for a comprehensive national Screen Policy, aiming to establish guidelines that promote equity between domestic and international productions. They also pledged to continue working with Arts Council Malta for the effective implementation of the Domestic Screen Fund.

In conclusion, MEIA views the transfer as a step towards strengthening Malta’s film industry and remains committed to advocating for reforms and contributing to its long-term development.

#MaltaDaily

Today Is Black Friday!

Nov 29 2024

Today is Black Friday, a major shopping event that kicks off the Christmas season.

Originating in the United States, it is held the day after Thanksgiving and is known for steep discounts and early store openings, with some sales beginning as early as Thanksgiving night.

Traditionally the busiest shopping day of the year, Black Friday draws massive crowds seeking deals, with some retailers extending their promotions through Cyber Monday or even Cyber Week.

The term “Black Friday” has an interesting history. It was first used in the U.S. during financial crises, such as the 1869 gold market crash.

In the 1950s, it gained a new association with the post-Thanksgiving chaos, particularly in Philadelphia, where it described the overwhelming congestion caused by shoppers.

Despite efforts to rebrand it as “Big Friday,” the name stuck. By the 1980s, its meaning shifted to signify profitability for retailers, marking the day they moved from operating at a loss (“in the red”) to making a profit (“in the black”).

Over the years, Black Friday has become a global event. Countries worldwide have adopted similar sales, often customising them to local traditions. Online shopping and events like Cyber Monday have further expanded its influence, creating an extended holiday shopping season.

#MaltaDaily