We have just celebrated the independence festivities on the granaries in Floriana, where I was pleasantly surprised by the sheer numbers of people who were present for the events organized by the Nationalist Party.

Such events tend to reignite feelings, solidarity and friendships. They were an important string of events in more sense than one. There were many interesting discussions going on, before the musical entertainment. The short interventions of MPs were interesting and when you take this as a whole, you will surely be proud of what we are and what we achieved over the years.

My short intervention was about the situation in Libya and how Malta should be given a share of the rebuilding. The Maltese delegation to visit Libya should be a broad-based one in order that the benefits we richly deserve are shared equally across the board.

These festivities highlight the achievements of the past. Way back in 1964, I am sure there were many who thought the Nationalist government and Dr George Borġ Olivier were made to ask for Independence when Malta depended on the British crown, for a big part of its economy.

The success of this is now history. The basis was set, and today, after 47 years, we are still aware of where we started, where it took us, and where we must arrive.

The road has not been easy, but in all sincerity, we are living in a place called Malta, that is second to none. We have a lifestyle which is the envy of many, if not of all, the people who come to visit or work in Malta. Yes we do have some pockets that need taking care of, but on the whole, we are really ok.

I am a person whose work puts me in contact with many people all over Europe. The contacts are many and frequent, the opinions diverse, but they all sum up the different scenarios and possibly the good future that Malta has.

We must certainly be cautious, but also optimistic for the country we have inherited and love. We should be proud of Malta, as we go through the motions of an economic miracle, year in year out. With the tourism industry also, it seems we are going to hold on to last year’s figures, a record year in itself. The financial industry is still solid, our exports holding if not increasing, and the bigger picture is not bad at all.

Nothing is done by coincidence. All must be planned in some way or other. Luck plays its part; events determine new scenarios and happenings change the course of things. The common denominator is the Nationalist party in government. The stability of the government is fundamental. It may have hit a pothole or two in the course of the years, but consistent approach is important.

Then when we go out to sell Malta and its products in all sectors, the glossy brochure must be accompanied by the after sales service. Promises, and electoral promises made even by an individual MP in desperation, are dangerous. Reality checks are there to keep us in line. There is no need of any panic on a moody notice.

I did like the slogan used in these festivities, as it all fits in. Maybe a better explanation to the people would help. Not only in a mass meeting atmosphere, but daily, on television, where from the comfort of home, one can listen in to various arguments that are of actual interest to all.

We should be proud of our country and our achievements, as these are real and tangible. And by believing in the country we can be winners, year in year out. Yes, the economic environment is constantly changing and adapting to new realities,. Here again our smallness is an advantage.

What we have, what we achieved, is excellent. The opportunity is there for all to grab. We have done a lot, but there are some sectors that have not been seen to. These too must be on the agenda to complete the task. There are persons who need the government’s help, and we must reach out to them.

Malta is in for stable times. And I believe we will go for the next election as favourites to get re-elected for yet another term, as we will be seen as the best choice for this nation. The Maltese feel safe with a Nationalist government.

Robert Arrigo is parliamentary assistant in the Finance Ministry