Our summer has been dominated by the conflict in Libya. This conflict, now in its seventh month, seems to be at its end, although the final chapter is yet

to be written

I am surprised at the mutual political trading on who was closest to the Gaddafi regime.  Yet, I do not condemn any move by Prime Minister Gonzi in visiting Gaddafi, earlier on in the year. It was right and appropriate. Gaddafi was the leader of Libya at that time and nobody knew what was going to happen. It was the right move at that time, and our interest came first. To belittle such a visit, is petty. Belittling is arrogance, used by someone who is put in a temporary seat, to look down on a smaller being. It is shameful.

Malta, as anywhere else in Europe, depends on the supply of oil and gas. There were oil exploration problems, as well as substantial investments made. Any partner must work in this way, to the benefit, after all, of the Maltese people.

As events unfolded, Malta helped out, probably, far exceeding its means. The crux of the matter was that relations between the two countries have been firmly established. It is morally correct that Libya returns Malta’s support in one way or another. We are not after the big cake, and should not aim for it, as we are already outpaced, but intelligently and calmly, I am sure we can be a junior partner in the rebuilding process of investments and natural resources.

I am confident this will happen, and one must note that a commercial delegation will soon visit Libya in order to network and establish links with the new administration. This delegation must consist of the widest possible base and should include anybody that might be of a contribution and could help Malta and its varied and valid workforce.

The ongoing situation of markets and stock crashes is disturbing. Constant monitoring of our financial resources and the good use of our money is imperative. I don’t mind investing in the future, in a project that might or might not succeed; I don’t mind spending on our population in worthy schemes. What I do mind, however, is wastage of funds on useless schemes and projects. Other people’s money is easy to spend.

Meanwhile, another Independence commemoration looms. Time passes rather quickly, and this will set off another season of parliamentary work. I am still of the opinion that the most fruitful work is done outside the chambers, no matter what anybody says.