President of Malta George Vella has appealed for information resulting from the State of the Nation survey to be utilised for the benefit of society.

Vella was speaking in his closing speech at the third edition of the State of the Nation conference on Friday, sincerely appealing for the valuable information not to be closed off in a drawer as a simple academic exercise.

"The ball is in your court. We have provided you with this tool to be used," Vella said in his appeal.

He said that the conference enabled for a clearer picture of ourselves, and that we must now draw conclusions and determine how to move from words to action.

Addressing leaders, politicians, authorities, academics, civil society, economic operators and all those who can contribute, Vella said that they each have the responsibility not to lose interest, knowledge and motivation which prominently emerged through the initiative.

Vella appealed to these entities and individuals to contribute in a spirit of cooperation, not competition.

"Our collective interest, and that of future generations, depends on all of us today and not tomorrow," Vella said.

He then promised all necessary support where and when the need is felt for this initiative to continue.

Vella concluded his speech by thanking the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition for sharing their thoughts.

He also thanked former Prime Ministers Alfred Sant and Lawrence Gonzi, all the speakers who took an active part in the conference, the members of the public who participated in the survey, and all those who contributed to once again make this conference a success.