Michael Debono Ltd celebrated the 50th anniversary of Toyota in Malta and in Europe at the magical setting of the Saluting Battery below the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Managing directors Therese Debono and her sons Geoffrey and Michael Debono welcomed the guests.

The celebration party was attended by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Minister George Pullicino, Labour MP Gavin Gulia, and many distinguished guests. Naoya Taniguchi, Chairman of Toyota Great Britain, Makoto Sasagawa, Chief Coordinating Executive – Toyota Motor Europe, and Miguel Fonseca and his wife Paula flew to Malta for the occasion. Antonia Debono, wife of the founder Michael Debono, was also present for the celebration.

Geoffrey Debono said: “Today we are here to commemorate and to celebrate a grand event of Toyota in Europe and in Malta. Fifty years ago our small company opened the first Toyota dealership in Europe and also sold the first Toyota car in Europe which stands here today in its restored glory.”

Describing his late grandfather Michael Debono and his late father Philip Debono, as the company’s pioneers with great vision and acumen, Geoffrey also thanked the employees as they are the company’s important asset.

During a short presentation, Makoto Sasagawa presented a 50th Anniversary commemoration plaque from Tadashi Arashima, Toyota Motor Corporation Senior Managing Director and TME President and CEO to Geoffrey Debono in appreciation of the company Michael Debono Limited.

Geoffrey Debono presented silver medals marking Toyota’s 50th Anniversary in Malta to his grandmother, Antonia Debono, to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Dr Gavin Gulia as representative of the Labour Party and to the foreign Toyota representatives.

A ceremonial gun salute was fired when the exquisite Toyopet Crown Deluxe was unveiled by Michael Debono and Makoto Sasagawa in front of all the guests. The String Quartet entertained the guests with their classical repertoire throughout the evening.