President of Malta George Vella has spoken about the sense of pride that the people of Malta and Gozo should have for places of invaluable historical, strategic, and cultural nature such as the St Agatha Tower, also known as the Red Tower.

During a visit to site, Vella explained how this must be based on hard work and a long-term vision to nurture and preserve these living treasures of history, as they deserve.

The President said how investing in such places is also an investment in touristic infrastructure which attracts visitors, who also come to Malta for the historical and cultural heritage that our country has to offer.

In his speech, the President also linked the appreciation for our country’s history to the initiative he has launched in recent months, that of national unity. He expressed his view that as a country we have yet to better educate ourselves about structures such as the Red Tower.

The President added that, among other things, this can be done through intensive local campaigns, in schools, in local councils and in other forums, so that the Maltese citizens themselves discover these places and better appreciate their value.

The President said that, above all, the Maltese people themselves must be the first to appreciate and take care of such places, so that their value is better acknowledged even by the tourists visiting our country.

While thanking Din l-Art Ħelwa for the work it has done and the awareness it has managed to create over the years, the President reiterated his commitment that during his presidency he will continue to stress the importance of protecting the natural environment.