In a visit to Malta Enterprise’s main offices President of Malta Dr George Vella recognized the hard work and dedication by the national economic development agency in supporting businesses, especially throughout COVID.
H.E. Dr Vella toured the head quarters of Malta Enterprise, in Pieta`, and addressed employees in its satellite offices (Life Sciences Park, the Kordin Business Incubation Centre and Gozo) who joined in virtually.
The President congratulated the Corporation for their hard work, especially during the last challenging year. He said that ‘Malta Enterprise’s role in terms of investment in our country, both to attract new investment and to make an evaluation before certain agreements are concluded is a fundamental one.’ He continued by pointing out the outstanding impact that Malta Enterprise has left on the lives of thousands of individuals, families and businesses.
Kurt Farrugia, CEO of Malta Enterprise stated that “Despite the efforts to address the urgent needs caused by the pandemic, ME has also continued to fulfill the role of being the economic development agency. Last year we approved around 40 new FDI projects that shall create 1000 new jobs with a total investment of €800 million into the economy. Furthermore the fact that Malta never entered into a full lockdown resulted in further expansions and growth in particular sectors such as the digital innovation, life sciences and pharmaceuticals with good prospects for the medical devices niche.”
Over the last months, Malta Enterprise has been engaged in direct conversations, and maintained close contact, with its with clients, to provide for both the smooth flow of commerce during the pandemic. Since March 2020, Malta Enterprise has been managing the majority of the Government’s Aid Package, most notably the Wage Supplement through which more than 16,000 businesses, and 100,000 employees have benefitted. Other schemes include the Quarantine Leave, Teleworking and the Rent and Electricity refund schemes which provided further assistance to businesses during the pandemic. Malta Enterprise also launched schemes to regenerate the economy and prepare for a post Covid19 scenario, assisting businesses towards digitization and sustainability.
The President was treated to a behind-the-scenes look at what the Corporation has been doing to uphold, and support, the economy, and how all the departments joint forces to address the urgent needs of the pandemic. The President unveiled a painting; the ‘Tree of Life’ symbolising everyday business life which the Corporation has been very crucial to maintain during the last months. This gesture is a sign of appreciation to the employees of Malta Enterprise which serves as a reminder of their contribution towards life in such a difficult situation, to many families and employers.