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

ROME (ITALPRESS) – Pope Francis has died. His Eminence, Cardinal Farrell, announced the death of the Pontiff with sorrow, using these words: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the Triune God.”

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta’s political and religious leaders have expressed heartfelt tributes following the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, remembering him as a global beacon of peace, compassion, and humility.

President Myriam Spiteri Debono honoured the late Pope’s legacy, stating: “Pope Francis will be remembered for his humility, the particular attention he gave during his term to the poor and marginalized, as well as his continuous work for international peace and reconciliation between peoples.”

Prime Minister Robert Abela echoed similar sentiments, describing Pope Francis as “a strong voice in favour of peace and the most vulnerable.” Recalling his recent statements, Abela noted, “He spoke out in favour of peace only yesterday. The social issues he brought to the forefront, together with his reforms within the Catholic Church, define a significant pontificate — one that Malta was fortunate to witness firsthand during his visit.”

The Prime Minister also reflected personally on his encounters with Pope Francis, describing the Pope’s 2022 visit to Malta as “a beautiful occasion, in which our people gave the Pope a warm welcome wherever he went. On a personal note, I will treasure the meetings my family and I had with him.”

Opposition Leader Bernard Grech called Pope Francis a “shepherd of peace, humility and kindness.” He praised the Pope’s humanity, saying, “His wisdom, profound humanity and love touched the hearts of many, including the people of Malta.”

Speaker of Parliament Anġlu Farrugia joined the tributes, highlighting Pope Francis’ legacy as a global spiritual figure. “He stood out for his humility, compassion, and commitment to justice, peace, and the dignity of peoples,” Farrugia said.

Archbishop Charles Scicluna said that we should pray for him and continue to remember him as “the missionary of God’s mercy.” He recalled that it was in 2016 when Pope Francis launched the Jubilee of Mercy and how his pastoral work always aimed to be close to those who are most in need of God’s mercy.

President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, also paid her respects. “The world has lost a man who, through compassion, love, and courage, embodied hope,” she said. “His smile touched the hearts of people all around the world and the fact he spoke to everyone will leave a lasting mark on many lives.”

During his papacy, Pope Francis was the third pontiff to visit Malta, following Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI. His visit in April 2022, delayed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was marked by strong calls for compassion, solidarity with migrants, and resistance to corruption. At the John XXIII Peace Lab in Ħal Far, he urged Malta to continue opening its heart to those in need.

Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Catholic Church, passed away after a prolonged vulnerability to pulmonary issues, a condition dating back to his early adulthood when part of his lung was removed due to pneumonia.

He leaves behind a transformative legacy, having appointed 163 cardinals from 76 countries, including 25 countries never before represented in the College of Cardinals. Among them was Gozitan Cardinal Mario Grech, appointed as Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, and now among the electors for Pope Francis’ successor.

As tributes pour in from around the world, Malta joins the global community in mourning the loss of a pope who profoundly shaped the modern Church and inspired people of all backgrounds with his unwavering call for justice, dignity, and peace.

ITALIAN VERSION

– photo DOI –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

MILAN (ITALPRESS) – “With deep emotion, I receive the news that the earthly journey of His Holiness Pope Francis has come to an end. I consider his friendship a true gift of life. A genuine interpreter of the Gospel and an authoritative guide of the Church in a time of profound change, the Holy Father managed to win the affection of the faithful and the respect of many, including non-Christians like myself, thanks to a life testimony that was simple, consistent, and open to dialogue.”

This was stated by Kamel Ghribi, Vice President of the San Donato Group and President of GKSD Investment Holding, who added: “His pontificate was marked by the moral and spiritual strength with which he guided the Catholic Church toward greater attention to the marginalized, a deeper awareness of environmental challenges, and a constant call for universal fraternity. With humility and determination, he promoted peace, interreligious dialogue, and the renewal of consciences, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary society. I join the mourning of the ecclesial and international community, raising a thought of gratitude for his high teaching and for the example of faith and humanity that will continue to inspire future generations.”

– photo press office GKSD Investment Holding –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews