The Le Meridian’s investment of over Lm18 million is another of Malta’s assets to further attract tourists, said Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi yesterday at the official opening of Le Meridian, St Julian’s.

Dr Gonzi, accompanied by Mrs Gonzi, visited Le Meridian St Julian’s and was welcomed by general manager Michael Shannon and his staff.

He pointed out the importance of tourism in Malta and of continuously investing in the “Maltese product”.

“It is not enough for the hotel to target high quality visitors unless the quality of service provided to these guests is up to standard,” said Dr Gonzi.

Malta is facing challenges in the tourism sector, he added. The government is facing the challenge of how to increase the number of tourists during the winter months.

“Malta is unique and cannot be compared to other tourist destinations. We need to find the exact formula which will open up Malta fully to tourism,” he said.

Dr and Mrs Gonzi toured the hotel and visited the Lotus Spa and Health which compromises a lagoon pool, several holistic treatment rooms, saunas and steam rooms, gym and fitness facilities.

They also visited the roof top pool and La Bajja Grill, the Scirocco Restaurant, Ku de Ta Bar and Lounge and the Villa Barista Café and terraces.

Le Meridian St Julian’s is the second five star hotel operated by the brand in Malta and is owned by Bajja Investments Ltd. It welcomed its first guests on March 1 this year.