Preparing for the challenges of 2021

During the programme ‘Dritt għall-Punt’, presented by Roderick Agius on NET TV, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry President, Perit David Xuereb weighed in on the possible political, environmental and economic challenges Malta will face in the next twelve months.

Commenting on the journey towards normality, Perit Xuereb started off by saying that although 2019 was considered to be a ‘normal’ year, that did not mean that improvements were not called for. “The pandemic provided us with the right time to actually stop and think of new ways to improve our day-to-day lives, from both a business, professional and personal point of view,” he said.

Perit Xuereb emphasised the importance to continue to appreciate and benefit from the lessons learnt as a result of the experience of Covid-19. “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle was a true and real part of everyone’s lives in 2020. Let us ensure that the new habits and routines that we have adopted in the past months are cherished and improved upon in the near future,” continued The Chamber President.

Xuereb noted that until herd immunity is achieved, the Covid-19 risk will remain very much present and real. “We simply cannot stress enough the importance to follow the guidelines that the health authorities are providing, now more than ever, as the vaccine rollout is well underway. Only by acting in a disciplined manner can we hope to see the economy recuperate,” said Perit Xuereb.

“As Malta’s largest business representative body, the interest of our country’s general wellbeing is very close to our heart. As we have done in the past, The Malta Chamber is a firm believer in bringing together Malta’s smartest minds and stakeholders to work towards a common goal in an aligned, honest and energised manner. Only by joining forces, can we tackle the challenges that this year will present in an effective manner. The main stakeholders of the country need to act as responsible role models to make sure that the public is well informed and motivated” explained Xuereb.

Perit Xuereb said that it was crucial for all political and social partners and businesses alike, be aligned towards achieving the objectives of good governance and respect for the rule of law that are led by people of integrity. “Positive developments have been witnessed to achieve these objectives over the past months, but we need to remain relentless and vigilant to ensure that we leave no stone unturned in this respect. This will ensure the sustainable development of our society and our economy that will enable the true improvement of the quality life of our people based on honesty, integrity and professionalism.”

Dr George Vidal Zammit was also a guest on the programme.