Yesterday US ambassador Molly Bordonaro and Customs director general John Mifsud initiated the renovation of warehouse 210 at the Malta Freeport.

The project was officially commenced when the US ambassador and Mr Mifsud, holding a sledgehammer, hit the walls of the warehouse.

The renovation of the warehouse is funded by the United States government as part of the US commitment to help Malta upgrade its capability to control cargo passing through Maltese territory. The US has already provided Malta with a Vehicle and Container Inspection System (VACIS) as well as other equipment and training.

Mr Mifsud said that he is grateful to the US government of providing a state of the art facility where customs may offer a better service in a more comfortable place. He also said that given the importance given to security lately, customs’ work of protecting society will be further facilitated with the new warehouse. He confirmed that within the World Customs Organisation, the Maltese Customs are considered as modern, effective and concluded by thanking his colleagues.

Ambassador Bordonaro said the project, which will be finished in eight to 10 months’ time, will further strengthen relations between the US and Maltese governments. She said that the customs facilities at the Freeport are impressive, given that they have only been present for four years.

She was impressed also by the level of knowledge and skill that customs official possess. Such skills will surely pay off while fighting against weapons proliferation and abuse of intellectual property rights, she said.

Ms Bordonaro also referred to the incident when counterfeit Nike merchandise was seized at the customs which attracted praise from a Nike USA official who was present in Malta.

The renovation work will be conducted under the supervision of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Colonel Margaret W Burcham commander of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Europe District said that she is looking forward to finishing the project.