The 2005 Malta International Art Biennale was inaugurated at the Mediterranean Conference Centre by Tourism and Culture Minister Francis Zammit Dimech.

In its sixth edition, the Malta Biennale is celebrating Malta’s membership in the European Union in Malta 2004.

In its 15 venues in Malta, the Malta Biennale will pay special “exhibition tributes” to Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, Spain and the UK.

Dr Zammit Dimech said he was pleased to inaugurate the Art Biennale which promoted Malta and Maltese artists throughout the world.

He also said that Maltese art was the best promotion for Malta.

“Maltese nationals, from all walks of life and ages, have talents which they transmit through their works. Membership of the European Union is contributing towards the dissemination of our artistic talents in the 24 other member states of the EU,” he said.

The minister thanked Dame Françoise Tempra for her efforts in promoting Malta internationally through the cultural institutions she presides or with which she is associated.