As I was involved in Maltese tourism for several decades I have enjoyed the privilege of seeing Malta achieve Independence and watched as through good housekeeping, at one time to the point of frugality, it achieve a proud Independence that was the envy of the Mediterranean.

Malta’s unique geographical position allowed it to sit serenely, a haven of international tranquility, while other countries and states went to war or got into some form of hostility.

With Independence the Maltese currency was born. Then Malta, a small country not much bigger than the Isle of Wight, got its own international airline and Air Malta in its fine livery was seen proudly all over Europe.

It traded successfully with other countries without being in any way politically involved. With skilful diplomacy it offered successful neutral cooperation on a trading basis alone.

I will always love Malta and I am sure that the adoption of the euro is an inevitable step that had to be taken; but I do feel sad that the loss of the lira seems to further endorse the loss of Maltese Independence.

David Woods

Scarborough UK