Whilst it is not clear whether Malta will be included on UK safe travel list, many British tourists have postponed or kept their bookings to visit the island, and according to Tourism Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli, "are looking forward to visit".

"UK tourists are crucial for our list, and we know that many British tourists are also waiting and looking forward to visiting Malta," Tourism Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli told The Malta Independent.

She said statistically many British tourists have kept their bookings to visit Malta and are looking forward to visiting the islands.

On Wednesday, Malta will reopen its borders, and the UK so far does not feature amongst the list of countries where flights will be permitted from. All tourists visiting Malta are exempted from the previous 14 day quarantine.

It has been reported that diplomatic discussions are underway between the Maltese and UK governments for Malta to be included in Britain's 'air bridge' list. When this newsroom asked Farrugia Portelli whether any decisions have been made, she said that diplomatic discussions are still ongoing and expressed that Malta is a very safe country to visit. "We are here to discuss amongst other countries about any concerns or questions they may have regarding travelling to the island."

When asked once more whether Malta will be added to the list, Farrugia Portelli replied in a tongue in cheek manner, "best to ask the English government."

On Tuesday, The Times of Malta reported that travel ban is to be lifted for regions in Spain, France and Italy which have been hit hard by the coronavirus. According to the report, the government is expected to announce flights to and from "entire countries." When asked regarding this, Farrugia Portelli explained that the government will publish a legal notice in the hours to come. "We are constantly monitoring this list, and the government revisits decisions taken, to include new countries and if need be to remove countries which are not safe."

 

Video: Alenka Falzon