MEP Josianne Cutajar visits Valletta Cruise Port and discusses current developments at an EU level

On Friday, MEP Josianne Cutajar was welcomed by CEO Stephen Xuereb and senior management members on a visit to Valletta Cruise Port in relation to its 20year anniversary.

During the visit, which ended with a meeting with the Board of Directors, Dr Cutajar had the opportunity to learn more about the port’s operations and recent developments, discuss upcoming EU legislation and developments, and listen to concerns and suggestions by the industry.

MEP Josianne Cutajar praised the significant investments in safety and environmental sustainability, especially since the Cruise Port is implementing an Environmental Risk Management System (ERMS), which will earn it an international “green port” accreditation. Moreover, Valletta Cruise Port is supporting a €49.9 million initiative taken by the Government of Malta to develop shore-side electricity infrastructure as part of the Grand Harbour Clean Air Project.

“Valletta Cruise Port is a vital component of Malta’s transport and tourism industry, as is the cruisliner activity” MEP Josianne Cutajar noted. According to the NSO, the number of passengers visiting Malta on cruise liners has increased by 46,786 over the year 2022.

“It is important that as a country and European Union we continue to increase our investment in the necessary technologies and infrastructure, including green infrastructure and energy supply, not only to keep up with the upcoming obligations under the FitFor55 environmental package, but also as a shift towards quality tourism. I look forward to continue to voice the Maltese transport and tourism industry’s concerns and aspirations within the European Parliament,” the MEP concluded.