LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The long-awaited trial of four men accused of involvement in the assassination of Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia has officially begun, nearly eight years after her murder sent shockwaves through Malta and the international community. A jury was empanelled on Wednesday to hear the case against brothers Robert and Adrian Agius — known as the ‘Ta’ Maksar’ brothers — along with Jamie Vella and George Degiorgio.

The men face a total of seven serious charges, including the voluntary homicide of Caruana Galizia in 2017 and lawyer Carmel Chircop in a separate 2015 case. Several of the accused are also charged with unlawful possession of explosives and firearms. Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed on October 17, 2017, when a remotely detonated car bomb exploded under her vehicle shortly after she left her home in Bidnija. The attack bore the hallmarks of a professional hit and marked a turning point in Malta’s political and judicial landscape.

Widely known for her fearless reporting on corruption, money laundering, and organized crime — much of it tied to powerful political and business figures — Caruana Galizia had been investigating high-profile scandals, including the notorious 17 Black company secret company based in Dubai tied to businessman Yorgen Fenech, when she was murdered. The assassination drew immediate global condemnation, with press freedom organizations, the European Parliament, and human rights advocates demanding justice.

The public outrage eventually led to a public inquiry, which concluded in 2021 that the Maltese state had created a “culture of impunity” that enabled her killing through systemic regulatory failures and political negligence. George Degiorgio, one of the men now on trial, previously admitted his role in the assassination during a 2022 interview. Investigators believe Robert and Adrian Agius supplied the explosive device used in the bombing, while Jamie Vella is accused of helping organize the logistics behind the operation.

The alleged mastermind, Maltese businessman Yorgen Fenech, was arrested in 2019 and is still awaiting trial. The trial is expected to shed further light on the extensive criminal network suspected of carrying out contract killings in Malta, with Caruana Galizia’s murder viewed as the most high-profile example of a broader pattern of violence and corruption.

The same group has also been linked to the murder of Carmel Chircop, a lawyer who was shot dead in 2015 in what initially appeared to be an unrelated case. However, recent testimony from Vincent Muscat — a key witness and one of the original three men charged in Caruana Galizia’s murder — connected the Agius brothers and Vella to both killings. Muscat reached a plea deal in 2021, receiving a reduced sentence in exchange for his cooperation.

Prosecutors allege that both murders were orchestrated by the same organized crime network, acting to silence perceived threats — whether journalistic or financial. For many, the opening of this trial represents a critical step forward in holding that network to account and securing justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia. The proceedings are expected to continue over several weeks, with public and media scrutiny remaining intense as Malta confronts the deep-seated issues exposed by one woman’s pursuit of the truth.

– photo Net News –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

TRIPOLI (LIBYA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Libya’s Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dabaiba convened a high-level meeting to address the country’s maritime border security, calling it “a sovereign matter that directly impacts Libya’s national security,” according to an official government statement.

The urgent discussions brought together senior officials including State Minister for Communication and Political Affairs Walid Al-Lafi, Transportation Minister Mohammed Al-Shahoubi, Chairman of the Land and Maritime Borders Committee at the Foreign Ministry Mohammed Al-Harari, National Oil Corporation (NOC) Chairman Masoud Suleiman, and Cabinet Secretary-General Rashid Bougafa.

“This issue cannot be treated as merely technical – it requires a coordinated national political approach,” Prime Minister Dabaiba emphasized during the meeting. The talks focused on the challenges hindering Libya’s ongoing maritime border demarcation efforts. Officials highlighted the need for greater institutional coordination that integrates technical expertise with solid legal frameworks, forming a united national stance ahead of potential regional disputes.

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, will travel to the Vatican to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, the Office of the President confirmed in an official statement. The solemn ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday morning and is expected to draw dignitaries and religious leaders from around the globe. President Spiteri Debono will lead a five-member Maltese delegation invited by the Holy See. Accompanying her will be her husband, Anthony Spiteri Debono; Prime Minister Robert Abela and his wife, Lydia Abela; and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech.

The composition of the delegation reflects a bipartisan representation of the nation’s political leadership and the importance Malta places on its historic ties with the Vatican. “The invitation extended to Malta is a sign of the close and longstanding relationship between our country and the Holy See,” the President’s Office noted. “President Spiteri Debono is honored to represent the Maltese people on this solemn occasion.”

– photo DOI –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

RIYADH (SAUDI ARABIA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – A delegation from the Italpress news agency, led by founder and editor-in-chief Gaspare Borsellino, visited the headquarters of the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) today in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. The visit was part of the cooperation agreement signed between the two news agencies in December 2024 and aimed to launch the executive phase of the agreement, proposing projects to be developed in coordination between the two parties.

The Italpress delegation was welcomed by Hassan Al-Asmari, Vice President for the Information Sector at SPA; Saeed Al-Shihri, Director of the Legal Department; Ali Al-Qahtani, General Director of Multimedia Content; Mahdi Al Rashid, Director of the Digital Media Department; and Haya Al-Hussaini, Director of Foreign Languages at the agency.

During the meeting, which concluded with a tour of the building housing the various editorial offices of the Saudi news organization, the two parties discussed several upcoming projects involving Saudi Arabia, such as Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup. On the occasion, Director Borsellino presented a video in English showcasing Italpress’ activities and outlining future projects related to Saudi Arabia and the cooperation between the two agencies.

The intention to strengthen the exchange of news and mutual collaboration was also reaffirmed through the development of new multimedia projects and the exchange of journalists between Italy and Saudi Arabia.

The cooperation agreement signed in 2024 between Italpress and the Saudi Press Agency aims to enhance news cooperation, develop media collaboration activities, and promote mutual benefits regarding news products and content sharing. The agreement also includes support in training and professional development, as well as the organization of joint events both in Italy and Saudi Arabia.

– photo Saudi Press Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Two Moroccan nationals have been identified as central figures in the fatal robbery of a jewellery shop in Zurrieq that led to the death of 67-year-old shop owner Joseph Carabott. Mohamed Anas Boualam, 37, has admitted to the murder, which occurred during a violent hold-up on August 25, 2023. Carabott sustained serious injuries during the assault and succumbed to a chest infection directly linked to those injuries on April 5 of this year. As proceedings continued before Magistrate Donatella Frendo Dimech, Boualam pleaded guilty. Although given time to reconsider, he confirmed his admission of guilt. Sentencing is scheduled for June 3.

The second defendant, Zaouhair Hadoumi, also a Moroccan national, has pleaded not guilty to the charge of involuntary murder. The court has ruled that sufficient evidence exists for Hadoumi to stand trial, placing him under indictment.
Forensic experts confirmed that Carabott’s death was directly tied to the injuries sustained during the robbery.

A third accomplice, Donna Borg Sciberras, has already been sentenced to 28 years in prison in connection with the same crime. The case has raised concerns over violent crime and the role of foreign nationals in serious offenses, sparking debate over security and immigration in Malta.

– foto: ufficio stampa Polizia di Malta –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Under the soaring vaults of St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, political, religious, and civic leaders stood shoulder to shoulder with the faithful on Tuesday evening to honour the life and legacy of Pope Francis during a solemn Requiem Mass.

Among the dignitaries present were President of the Republic Myriam Spiteri Debono, Prime Minister Robert Abela, Chief Justice Mark Chetcuti, and Malta’s Ambassador to the Holy See, Frank Zammit. They joined a packed congregation of clergy and laity in a collective act of remembrance for the late Argentine Pontiff, whose papacy touched hearts across continents.

Presiding over the Mass, Archbishop Charles Scicluna delivered a homily steeped in emotion and reverence, capturing the essence of a pope who sought, above all, to share the liberating joy and compassion of the Gospel.

Turning to Pope Francis’ 2022 visit to Malta, Archbishop Scicluna recalled how the Pontiff praised the country as a “wind rose where people and cultures meet” and a model of kindness and welcome. He urged the faithful to remember the Pope’s words, which described Malta not just as a nation, but as a “place of dialogue and evangelisation.”

The Requiem Mass was both a farewell and a testament: a celebration of a pontificate defined by humility, love, and the unwavering belief that joy is at the heart of the Christian message.

-Foto Department of Information Malta-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta is on track to exit the European Union’s Excessive Deficit Procedure (EDP) ahead of schedule, following a stronger-than-expected financial performance in 2024. This development marks a significant milestone for the country, with official figures showing notable improvements in both deficit and debt levels.

According to data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO), the Government registered a deficit of €825.3 million last year—equivalent to 3.7% of Malta’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This represents a reduction of 0.8 percentage points from earlier projections. Meanwhile, the national debt stood at €10.6 billion, or 47.4% of GDP—well below the previously forecasted 55.3%.

Finance Minister Clyde Caruana hailed the figures as a clear sign that Malta is emerging from the EDP more rapidly than anticipated. Speaking at a press conference, he said, “The figures confirm that our country’s finances are stronger than ever. The targets we set last year were not only met but exceeded.”

Caruana underscored that this fiscal progress has been achieved without any new or increased taxes, stressing the Government’s commitment to avoiding additional burdens on citizens. “This progress is being achieved without the need to introduce or increase any form of taxation,” he affirmed.

The EDP is a corrective mechanism used by the EU to address excessive deficits and debt levels among member states. Malta had entered the procedure during a period of elevated spending and economic uncertainty, but Caruana now says the country is demonstrating that its public finances are on a sustainable path.

Looking forward, the Finance Minister projected that the deficit will narrow further to 3.3% in 2025, and fall below the 3% threshold by 2026. If achieved, this would place Malta comfortably within EU fiscal rules.

Despite external economic pressures, Malta’s debt levels are now about 30 percentage points below the EU average, indicating resilience in the face of global volatility. Caruana reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to “safeguarding the long-term sustainability of public finances” while maintaining compliance with EU fiscal guidelines.

“These results show that Malta is not just recovering but moving ahead with confidence and stability. Our prudent fiscal approach is paying off and setting the stage for future growth,” Caruana concluded.

-Foto Department of Information Malta-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

TRIPOLI (LIBYA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – In a significant show of military diplomacy and strategic presence, the United States has deepened its engagement with Libya through the high-profile arrival of the USS Mount Whitney, the command and control flagship of the U.S. Sixth Fleet, off the coast of Tripoli and later in Benghazi. The visit, announced by the U.S. Embassy in Libya, marks a renewed effort by Washington to support Libya’s sovereignty, security, and military unification.

The embassy confirmed via a post on the social media platform X that the vessel carried a senior delegation, including Vice Admiral Thomas J. Anderson, Commander of the U.S. Sixth Fleet; U.S. Special Envoy to Libya Ambassador Richard Norland; and Chargé d’Affaires Jeremy Berndt. The group engaged in a series of high-level meetings in both western and eastern Libya to reaffirm U.S. commitment to regional stability and national reconciliation.

The visit began in Tripoli, where the ‘Mount Whitney’ docked at the capital’s port. The U.S. delegation met with senior figures from the Government of National Unity (GNU), including Chief of Staff General Mohamed Al-Haddad, Presidential Council member Abdullah Al-Lafi, Acting Foreign Minister Taher Al-Baour, Deputy Defense Minister Abdulsalam Al-Zoubi, and Audit Bureau President Khaled Shakshak. Discussions focused on expanding security cooperation, institutional reform, and efforts to unify the country’s fragmented military forces. Following the Tripoli meetings, the ‘Mount Whitney’ proceeded to Benghazi, where the American officials held talks with leaders from the Libyan National Army (LNA). They were received by Lieutenant General Khairy Al-Tamimi, Lieutenant General Khaled Haftar, and Vice Admiral Shaib Al-Saber. The Benghazi visit marked a rare moment of bilateral military dialogue, reflecting Washington’s intent to engage all key stakeholders in Libya’s ongoing stabilization process.

“The visit highlights U.S. support for a unified Libyan military capable of defending the country’s sovereignty and contributing to regional security,” read a statement from the U.S. Embassy.

– photo US Embassy in Libya –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Maltese government has declared two national days of mourning following the passing of Pope Francis, who died yesterday at the age of 88. A global figure of peace, humility, and social justice, Pope Francis served as the beloved leader of the Catholic Church for more than a decade. In a statement issued by the Government of Malta announced that Tuesday, 22 April 2025, would be observed as a national day of mourning in honour of the late pontiff. A second day of mourning will coincide with the Pope’s funeral, which is expected to take place later this week, between Thursday and Saturday.

“Pope Francis was the leader of the Catholic Church and a symbol of social justice and peace for the peoples of the whole world,” the official statement read. “The Government urges all Maltese and Gozitan people to join in this final tribute of respect by observing these days of mourning”. As part of the tribute, all public government events and functions scheduled on the funeral day will be cancelled. Flags across government buildings and offices will be flown at half-mast on both days, and citizens are encouraged to mark the mourning period with solemnity and respect. In Valletta, the iconic Triton Fountain was turned off as a symbolic gesture of respect following the announcement of the Pope’s death. Archbishop Charles Scicluna will lead a mass for the intercession of the soul of Pope Francis this evening in St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta.

Everyone is invited to attend the celebrations for the Lord to meet Pope Francis and grant him peace, love, and happiness in heaven. In the name of the Church of Malta, Archbishop Charles Scicluna said, “As the Catholic Church is currently celebrating the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we need to entrust God with the soul of Pope Francis. We should remember Pope Francis as a missionary of God’s grace, as someone who was always close to those who most needed God’s grace”.

Until the funeral of His Holiness, all the churches in Malta are ring their bells to thank Pope Francis for his service to Christ, the Catholic Church, and humanity. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, made history as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church. His papacy was widely recognized for its emphasis on compassion, inclusion, and advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Further details on the funeral proceedings are expected in the coming days.

– photo DOI –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

MALTA (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Former Foreign Minister and long-serving Nationalist MP Francis Zammit Dimech has passed away at the age of 70, Opposition Leader Bernard Grech announced on Monday afternoon.

Zammit Dimech, a towering figure in Maltese politics for over three decades, was remembered by political leaders across the spectrum as a statesman of rare dignity, intellect, and grace.

In an emotional tribute posted on Facebook, Bernard Grech who is on an official visit to China, described the veteran politician as “a true gentleman” who dedicated his life to public service. “He had a way of smoothing over any difficulty, resolving every disagreement, and even when faced with tough times, he always had a smile,” Grech wrote. “Francis, I find myself without the words to truly convey the sadness we are all experiencing. Thank you, dear Francis. We will always be proud of who you were and what you did.”

President of Malta Myriam Spiteri Debono also paid tribute, praising Zammit Dimech’s unwavering commitment to his country. “Dr Zammit Dimech dedicated his life to public service. He represented Malta at European and local level, and earned the respect of all those who worked with him, regardless of political views,” she said.

She noted his recent service as Acting President of Malta, even while facing health challenges. “He continued to serve the country even when he was going through a difficult period of health,” Spiteri Debono said, extending condolences to his loved ones.

Prime Minister Robert Abela also expressed his sorrow, describing Zammit Dimech as a “gentleman politician” known for his respectful and principled manner. “Malta remains grateful for Zammit Dimech’s service, even when he was recently appointed Acting President despite facing health challenges,” the Prime Minister said.

Speaker of the House Anġlu Farrugia joined the chorus of tributes, stating that Zammit Dimech’s legacy was one of integrity and unwavering commitment to democratic values. “His decades of public service—both in Parliament and in Government—were marked by integrity and a steadfast commitment to Malta’s democracy,” Farrugia said on behalf of the House of Representatives.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola described him as an honest friend, and thanked him for the advice he gave her when she was contesting her first MEP election. “Francis was the personification of someone who dedicates his life to Maltese society and the Maltese and Gozitan people,” she said.

Born on October 23, 1954, Francis Zammit Dimech entered politics in 1987 and served as a member of the House of Representatives until 2017. He briefly represented Malta in the European Parliament from 2017 to 2019 and later served as interim secretary-general of the Nationalist Party in 2020.

Over his long political career, he held several ministerial portfolios, including foreign affairs, transport and communications, environment and resources, infrastructure, tourism, and culture. His tenure as Foreign Minister in Lawrence Gonzi’s government from 2012 to 2013 capped a career defined by public engagement and statesmanship.

In April 2024, he was appointed Acting President of Malta during the absence of the incumbent, further underscoring his continued dedication to national service despite personal health struggles.

Outside of politics, Zammit Dimech was a seasoned lawyer and academic. He chaired his law firm, Francis Zammit Dimech Associates, and was a recognised authority in international law, financial services, and corporate governance. He held degrees in law and financial services from the University of Malta, an MBA from Henley Business School, and was pursuing a PhD in Law of Broadcasting at the time of his passing.

A former journalist and lecturer, Zammit Dimech contributed significantly to Maltese media and academia, having worked with publications including ‘The Times of Malta’ and taught European media law at the University of Malta.

As Malta mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished public figures, tributes continue to pour in for a man remembered not only for his accomplishments but for his humility, kindness, and enduring commitment to public life.

Photo press office PN 

Source: medNews