2020 vision or optical illusion?

Abstract

Malta's geographic location at the centre of the Mediterranean has conditioned our past and if we are smart, it should remain axiomatic to our future. Our country has seen its destiny unfold principally through foreign eyes, which throughout the ages, have projected their values and cultures on us, some leaving a hallmark on our identity, language, and personality. Ironically, it is precisely this exquisite blend of cultural legacy spruced with the blessing of St. Paul which makes us a unique embodiment of central Mediterranean past. Today, having established our identity as an island nation, Malta has understood that it can pro actively influence the Mediterranean's future, but this time, by projecting back our values, hospitality, expertise, and spirit of enterprise. As a Member State at the Southern frontier of the EU, Malta can continue to play a significant role as a cross-road between the EU on the one hand, and North Africa on the other. This said, as we have the hallmarks and the economic infrastructure of a strategic location for interregional and intercultural trade in a global economy, our role in the Mediterranean invites us also to look beyond: to North America, the Middle East, and the Far East.