VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Prime Minister Robert Abela ushered in the New Year from Manoel Island, using the setting to signal the government’s intention to reclaim major sites for public use after a year marked by controversy over development projects.
In a national address, Abela described Manoel Island as “a site with a beautiful history and an even more beautiful future,” naming it as one of three locations the government wants to return to the public as national parks. White Rocks and Fort Campbell were also included in the pledge.
Manoel Island has long been contentious following its transfer to the MIDI consortium under a concession agreement. Abela acknowledged that existing contractual obligations would make the process complex but said the government was “resolute and ready” to act.
He also suggested Fort Tigné could be added to the list, calling it a potential “victory for our people” and stressing the need to protect cultural heritage of national and international value from further development.
The prime minister said the vision was to create a Malta where families could spend time together in shared public spaces, forming memories central to the country future generations would inherit.
Reflecting on the past year, Abela said Malta had withstood the effects of wars and global economic instability while maintaining progress. He pointed to what he described as a strong economy delivering higher incomes, quality jobs and investment.
He highlighted social measures including free childcare, free public transport, energy subsidies and tax removals for middle-class parents, alongside reforms strengthening equality and LGBTQ+ rights.
Looking ahead, Abela warned of profound changes driven by digitalisation and announced the launch of Malta Vision 2050, the country’s first long-term national plan, to be shaped through broad consultation.
– photo OPM –
(ITALPRESS).
