It cannot be more ironic: Right in the middle of a controversy surrounding his colleague Konrad Mizzi, Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis was pictured in front of the Panama stand as he attended the IMEX fair in Frankfurt.
Dr Mizzi has been embroiled in a political controversy for eight weeks since it was revealed that he had opened a company in Panama, and never before has the name of this small country been mentioned all over the world, including Malta, in what has become known as the Panama Papers scandal.
Dr Zammit Lewis attended the fair to address journalists from several countries on Malta’s potential as a tourist destination. The photo was provided by the Department of Information.
During the first international presence of Conventions Malta at the IMEX fair in Frankfurt, Minister Zammit Lewis said that Conventions Malta is all about connecting meeting organisers; facilitate logistical aspects, whilst identifying government property to help provide a truly unique convention experience.
Speaking to journalists, Destination Management Companies (DMC’s) and other stakeholders, Minister Zammit Lewis said that the main aim of the establishment of Conventions Malta is not to compete with other private destination management companies, but rather to assist them in all logistical aspects.
This bureau will promote Malta as the ideal destination on a global platform, as a unique and memorable destination for all types of conventions and incentives throughout the whole year, stated the Minister for Tourism.
The Tourism Minister stressed that this market is of utmost importance for our tourism industry. In 2015 alone, it is estimated that almost 100,000 MICE delegates arrived in Malta - an increase of 14% compared to the previous year.
“Conventions Malta has been created to act on behalf of the Government to facilitate on logistical aspects and identify government property that would be ideal to create such an experience. I am committed to assist the industry in creating the most memorable experiences to companies and associations choosing Malta as their destination for their next Meeting, Incentive Conference or Events. This is also reflected in the message behind Conventions Malta, which is Access All Areas”.
The tourism industry brings economic benefits in terms of income, employment and investment and it shows results in terms of reducing the seasonality issue. The advance of the MICE segment is also seen in the investment being carried out by the private sector, which is reaping an even better return on investment. This growth should also be accompanied by investment in human resources, added the Minister.
Minister Edward Zammit Lewis concluded that Malta’s tourism industry is a prime example of achievements that can be attained when all stakeholders, together with the Government, move in the same direction. The Government looks forward to attract more MICE business to our country and continues to provide tangible support and incentives to ensure the well-being of the tourism industry. Finally, the Minister expressed his gratitude to the working group within Conventions Malta at MTA, for liaising with stakeholders and ensuring its success on an international level.
During the fair the Minister for Tourism also met the Chairman of IMEX Mr Ray Bloom.