The Nationalist Party's vision for 2015 gives priority to young people, the Prime Minister told representatives of the National Youth Council.

That vision, he pointed out, was based on the importance that Malta becomes a centre of excellence in information technology, financial services, tourism, specialised manufacturing, health and education. It was built on three pillars - the environment, education, and work.

Young people had an important role in the implementation of this vision and he said that information technology did not translate only into SmartCity but included all aspects of the development the country was carrying out in information technology to create more employment.

In financial services, Dr Gonzi said, the government was committed to have qualified students to take all the opportunities that were being created. And through Mater Dei hospital Malta would have the instrument to improve its quality for its people and for visitors.

NYC president Alessia Zammit said the council believed that information technology and education were linked. She said Malta was at the forefront in European youth structures which aimed to develop the capabilities of young people.