It came as no surprise that the NSO’s latest statistical results of the tourism industry cancelled out those of the first quarter in 2012, thus securing a new record for tourism in Malta.

According to official figures, our bread-and-butter industry, which arguably fuels much of our entire national economy, saw a record increase of more than 147,000 tourists for the month of June. In parallel with those numbers, Malta has registered an increase of €15 million in tourism expenditure.

Moreover, we have also seen an addition in the number of nights spent on the island, therefore increasing respective expenditure. Notably, Italian and English nationals, representing two of the most important countries in terms of tourism and the economic markets for Malta, have been among the most frequent.

This, together with being ranked as having one of the best climates in the world, is what I believe reflects a direct result of the continuous and tireless initiatives implemented by the Maltese government throughout this legislature.

Most of us, regardless of our political views, would agree that the tourism industry in Malta has had a substantial boost thanks to a range of world-class branding campaigns, extensive restoration projects to enhance our rich heritage and culture, and continuous developments in national infrastructure – all in pursuit of promoting Malta as a unique product.

To mention but a few of these initiatives: the newly-renovated public areas, such as Pjazza San Gorg in Valletta; the complete face lift to the entrance of our capital city; the recently initiated Under Water Aquarium in Qawra; and the George Bonello Dupuis Garden in Sliema, among others.

One must also highlight projects such as that of Malta Goes Rural, which is giving back life to Malta’s beautiful rural villages, and upgrades to the countryside walks, such as the Dwejra Lines walk, the Girgenti walk and the Bahrija walk. The Malta Tourism Authority will also be launching new countryside walks across the Victoria Lines, the Neolithic Temples and Fawwara (also known as the Siggiewi walk).

Furthermore, the very recent rebranding and restructuring of the national airline also helps in improving our image as well as boosting Air Malta’s status as the national carrier. The chosen colours symbolise and reflect the importance we give to our national culture and Mediterranean characteristics.

We can now all proclaim that we have a product that is on a par with our direct competition. These initiatives have undoubtedly proved to be one of the prime objectives of the current government to boost the potential of our island.

An increase in tourism is a result of the hard work and dedication the government has put in, together with the Malta Tourism Authority, our ambassadors representing us around the globe and all those whose bread and butter depends on tourism. Every entity has done its utmost to promote Malta, its friendly hospitality and its rich culture. We are all stakeholders in this Malta tourism experience, and similarly we must all work together at all times to improve our visitors’ experience.

The author is deputy mayor of Siggiewi and a PN candidate for the general election on the 6th District