Labour MP Nigel Vella has argued that most people, including many residents, would prefer a lively attractive capital city than a dormant one.

Vella said that however a balance must be found between maintaining Valletta's vibrancy and protecting residents' quality of life. He stressed that dialogue is the key to achieving this balance.

Vella is a new Labour Member of Parliament who was elected from the first electoral district, which includes Valletta.

Speaking to The Malta Independent on Sunday, Vella contrasted today's Valletta with what he described as a previously "dead" capital city that attracted visitors only during special occasions such as Christmas. He highlighted Valletta's role as a hub for businesses, government offices and private offices. He said he welcomed seeing Valletta filled with tourists, Maltese and Gozitan visitors throughout the week and on weekends. He also praised the city's cultural activities and said they contribute to Valletta's appeal.

On the other hand, he acknowledged residents' concerns about excessive noise, parking shortages and other inconveniences resulting from increased activity in the city. He thus called for discussions involving residents, businesses and event organisers to obtain a complete picture of the challenges. Moreover, he insisted that residents should not be forced to bear the full burden of Valletta's popularity and success. He therefore believes that efforts should focus on reducing the impact on residents while preserving Valletta's status as a vibrant capital city.

"Our capital city deserves to be lively. However, not at the expense of the residents," Vella said.

When asked about his views on Malta's population growth and the resultant infrastructure pressure, Vella argued that such discussions should take into account government measures already introduced to manage the impact of population growth. He defended the role of foreign workers in Malta's economy, particularly in essential sectors such as healthcare. He maintained that Malta's economic model has created employment opportunities that benefit both Maltese citizens and foreign workers.

Vella acknowledged that population growth has increased pressure on infrastructure and public services; however he pointed to the government's transport and infrastructure plans, including the "Malta in Motion" strategy, as the solution to these challenges. He said that investment in transport systems, road infrastructure and long-term planning are "the way forward".

Vella stressted the need for a balanced approach that considers both economic needs and infrastructure capacity. He criticised the Opposition's approach to population growth, claiming there was a contradiction between raising concerns about population increases while proposing financial incentives for foreign workers. He further stated that voters had endorsed the government's infrastructure and transport policies through successive electoral victories.

Turning to the topic of immigration-related pressures in Ħamrun, Vella said that these have eased in recent years. He attributed this improvement largely to increased enforcement measures, including stronger monitoring and action by authorities.

Vella argued that foreign nationals who have the legal right to work in Malta should be treated equally and respected as members of society. He stressed that integration is a two-way process, requiring both foreign residents and locals to respect one another. He also said that foreign workers should respect Malta's traditions, customs, and way of life, and that Maltese and Gozitans should show respect towards foreign workers who come to Malta to support their families.

Vella acknowledged that areas such as Ħamrun and Marsa remain attractive to foreign workers because property prices and rents are generally lower than in other parts of the country. He emphasised that people who are legally entitled to live and work in Malta "deserve to be here" and should be treated accordingly.

When asked how Malta should balance economic growth with environmental protection, Vella described the environment as a key priority and welcomed the Prime Minister's commitment to planning reform. He praised government decisions to prioritise environmental considerations over development at major sites such as Manoel Island, White Rocks and Fort Tigné. He argued that choosing not to fully develop prime sites with significant commercial value demonstrates the government's environmental commitment.

Vella stressed that continued economic growth remains essential to protect jobs, control inflation and maintain living standards. He said Malta must avoid a situation where environmental protection comes at the expense of economic stability.

Vella argued that the government's commitment to the environment is reflected not only in political rhetoric but also in policy decisions. He acknowledged that achieving the perfect balance between economic growth and environmental protection remains difficult, particularly because Malta is a small country with limited land resources. Despite these challenges however, Vella said he believes Malta is moving closer to achieving that balance.

Vella identified culture as one of his main priorities during his parliamentary term. He said he intends to continue supporting the cultural sector, highlighting progress made in recent years through increased funding and expanded opportunities. He stressed the need for stronger regeneration efforts in District 1. He argued that such regeneration should extend beyond the Grand Harbour area and also target localities such as Ħamrun, Marsa and Floriana.

Furthermore, Vella called for investment and initiatives aimed at revitalising local business communities in these areas. He said that economic regeneration and business activity are key to strengthening communities. He also highlighted social policy as an area where he believes the government has established credibility and where he wants to continue contributing.

When asked what the biggest challenge facing his district is, Vella named an ageing population. He said that localities need policies that encourage new residents and help sustain community growth. Parking shortages were also cited as a widespread problem, particularly acute in localities such as Santa Venera due to the presence of industrial zones, shops and schools.

Vella was one of two Labour MPs who were elected immediately but were not given a ministerial or parliamentary secretary portfolio by the Prime Minister. When questioned as to whether this disappointed him, Vella said the decision was entirely the prerogative of the Prime Minister and that he respected it. He expressed confidence in the Prime Minister's leadership, saying that Robert Abela has the country's interests at heart.

"It is not a question of being disappointed. I am immensely happy," Vella said.

On the topic of Labour losing popularity, Vella rejected the idea that electoral margin changes are the key measure of Labour's popularity, saying that historically small margins have still been seen as significant victories. He said that Labour's latest electoral mandate of around 22,000 votes remains a strong result and demonstrates continued support for the party. He argued that Labour remains the largest political party and remains a solid base of voter trust.

Vella stressed the importance of maintaining close contact with the electorate as a central factor in political success. He said that Prime Minister Abela's message to his Cabinet was to "keep contact with the people", which he described as crucial. He argued that Labour's continued success is due to its consistent engagement with communities. Vella highlighted ongoing interaction between MPs, ministers and constituents as a key strength of the party. He concluded that sustained public engagement is the most important factor in maintaining political trust.