Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi spoke about the importance of competitiveness, describing it as one of the ingredients which were vital for the economy, when he discussed it at a meeting which Nationalist Party representatives had with Competitive Malta representatives led by chairperson Margrith Lutschg.

Dr Gonzi said Malta was considered as a country which could attract investment and that three years ago, the government had aimed at eurozone membership because it was aware of the benefits this would have on the economy. Joining the eurozone would improve competitiveness and make Malta more attractive for foreign investment.

The PN, he said, had always been ambitious in its plans and had introduced initiatives which improved the standard of living. Among these successes was the education sector. The government today had set six sectors as priorities which with Gozo were the PN’s vision up to 2015. These were information technology, health, tourism, the financial sector, manufacturing with value added, and education.

The government, he said, had EUR1 billion guaranteed for these projects. Another aspect which would enhance Malta’s competitiveness was the Grand Harbour plan for 20 initiatives of regeneration. There was also a plan to develop Marsamxett.

Ms Lutschg stressed the importance of enhancing competitiveness and said Malta’s message in the various sectors should be a common one and aim to eliminate bureaucracy.