This was stated by Prime Minister and PN leader, Dr Lawrence Gonzi, in his closing speech at the PN’s general conference in Bugibba yesterday. The manifesto for the EP elections was approved unanimously by a show of hands earlier in the session

In his speech, PN secretary general Joe Saliba said that the manifesto for the EP elections was one based on the principles and beliefs of the Christian Democrats. He maintained that these principles were in favour of the family, the individual and the general betterment of society.

Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi said that on 1 May, the country entered a new phase as Maltese and EU citizens. One of the challenges ahead is to elect five candidates to represent Malta in the forthcoming elections of the European Parliament on 12 June Dr Gonzi said.

“We will be choosing those candidates who represent our soul in politics,” said Dr Gonzi, making reference to Michael Frendo’s previous speech. The Prime Minister also touched on the local council elections and said this was a shining example of the opportunities that the EU provides, mentioning also the importance of bipartisan co-operation between councillors for the improvement and well being of their communities.

“We should not be afraid to declare that our values are those which have sustained our country for centuries,” continued Dr Gonzi to applause from the audience. The PN leader derided references to past religious squabbles coming from the opposition camp regarding the recent Bishops’ message on voting. Dr Gonzi commented on the approved electoral manifesto, which included the main principles of the Nationalist Party and the country’s values.

Dr Gonzi said that the word solidarity was historically tied to the Nationalist Party as he recalled a previous electoral programme, ‘Solidarity Always and Everywhere’ stating that it was important that no-one should be left behind in the name of progress. Dr Gonzi spoke of the Mediterranean region saying that we should be conscious of our advantages due to the country’s geopolitical location.

Dr Gonzi also said that he had wished for the Labour Party to participate in the pension reform but Dr Sant had argued that the legislation did not allow the opposition to take part. Dr Gonzi mentioned various organisations which were actively participating in the process, unlike the Labour Party, which has no interest in the future of the country and was resorting to petty and partisan politics.

He cited the various positive decisions that had already taken place since 1 May including those taken for the Drydocks, PBS, Air Malta, Gozo Channel and the environment. Dr Gonzi also said that Malta Enterprise was attracting lots of investment interest and mentioned recent decisions taken by MEPA,

for approval of land for industrial estate expansion.

Dr Gonzi also cited the improved deficit figures, from Lm80 million in 2003 to Lm60 million this year drew attention to the lower unemployment figures and better tourist arrivals. He also made reference to Eurostat figures which showed that Malta had the lowest rate of University graduates looking for work. The Prime Minister said it was important for the general public to realise that our agricultural produce was much better in quality and price when compared to anything coming from abroad.

The PN leader derided the Opposition leader’s statements that meat and cereal prices would rise as these changes had already been negotiated through the EU agreement package. Concluding, Dr Gonzi said Malta had a lot to look forward to. The country needed MEPs who would be able to properly represent Malta especially in the much awaited budgetary negotiations for the years 2007-2011 where Malta now has a vote.