The Malta Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce has awarded its Gold Medal 2005 to Joseph F.X. Zahra in recognition of his achievements and interest in commerce and the arts.

Mr Zahra is prominent in commercial circles and has served at the highest levels in various public companies and entities. He was a director on the Board of the Central Bank of Malta and served on the board of the Malta Development Corporation.

He was chairman of Bank of Valletta for six years and was instrumental in developing a policy of social responsibility, which was echoed in various other entities. He served as chairman in Maltacom and is presently chairman of the Euro Changeover Committee.

He also served as chairman on the Malta Arts Council. Apart from this, Mr Zahra runs his own companies: MISCO and Impetus Europe Consulting Limited.

At a ceremony held at the Society’s premises at Palazzo De La Salle, Valletta, following an opening address by the President of the Society, Paul Asciak, Tourism and Culture Minister Dr Francis Zammit Dimech gave a speech in appreciation of the qualities and work of Mr Zahra.

The President Edward Fenech Adami conferred the Gold Medal on Mr Zahra.