Minister for Competitiveness and Digital, Maritime and Services Economy Dr Emmanuel Mallia today presided over the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Malta Maritime Forum and Malta Marittima Agency.

"Malta has an active maritime industry and is home to a broad range of economic operators which range from financial services to insurance, yachting and marina management, consulting and legal services, logistics, transportation and aquaculture. Malta acknowledges that there is nowadays more recognition for maritime industries to be involved in the national and regional economies by means of maritime clusters," he said.

Dr Mallia emphasized "We are here because we believe in building bonds and relationships for the benefit of the economy. This MoU is in fact in line with the Government's philosophy to create and foster effective relations with the Private Sector and facilitate communication."

Malta Marittima Agency is still in its infancy, however, work has been ongoing since its establishment in order to bring it in line with the European Union's policy and Blue Growth Agenda, a government statement read. "It is expected to be a catalyst in bringing together stakeholders from the public and private sector to further enhance the potential of our marine and maritime industries."

"The Legal Notice bestows upon the Agency a number of functions and duties. The Agency is duty bound to promote maritime sectoral clusters and to encourage these sectors to focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and environmentally sustainable developments. Additionally, the Agency shall promote the beneficial aspects of the exchange of ideas between private and public entities and participation at EU and international meetings and conferences," the statement continued.

"This MoU provides a good platform for the establishment of a long and stable relationship between the two entities. It is a known fact that this Government believes in the Private Sector, we hope that this Memorandum of Understanding contributes to this end. I encourage you to build on this promise for the benefit and growth of this important sector. I am confident that we will both benefit from this opportunity to enhance collaboration between us."