‘Be wary of those who promise a lot’, former Chamber president warns

Standing on the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, former Chamber of Commerce, Malta President, Marisa Xuereb, shared a stark warning with Hot Malta. “Be wary of those who promise a lot,” she cautioned, her voice echoing against the historic buildings that have witnessed Malta’s political and economic evolution.

From the Chamber to the Street

Xuereb, who served as the Chamber’s president from 2017 to 2021, has seen firsthand the promises made and the challenges faced by Malta’s business community. Her words, spoken in the heart of Malta’s capital, carry a weight that extends beyond the cobblestone streets and into the very heart of the island’s economic scene.

Promises and Pitfalls

Xuereb’s warning is not born out of cynicism, but from a deep understanding of the complexities of Malta’s economy. She points to the recent past, filled with ambitious plans and promises, some of which have materialized, while others have fallen short. “We’ve seen projects promised, started, and then left unfinished,” she says, her gaze shifting towards the ongoing construction at the nearby City Gate project, a stark reminder of the challenges faced.

She is not alone in her caution. Local business owners, like Mario from the popular Republic Street café, Il-Bistrot, echo her sentiments. “We’ve heard many promises,” he says, wiping down the counter, “but it’s the follow-through that matters.”

Navigating the Future

Xuereb believes that while promises are necessary to drive progress, they must be tempered with realism and a deep understanding of the challenges at hand. She calls for a more nuanced approach, one that balances ambition with pragmatism. “We need to be realistic about what we can achieve and when,” she says, her voice steady and resolute.

, Xuereb sees a Malta that is poised for growth, but one that must learn from the past. She calls on the business community to engage in open dialogue with policymakers, to ensure that promises are not just made, but also kept. “Let’s not just talk about what we want,” she says, “let’s talk about how we can make it happen.”

As the sun begins to set over Valletta, casting a warm glow over the historic city, Xuereb’s words linger in the air. They serve as a reminder that while promises can inspire, it’s the follow-through that truly matters. And so, as Malta continues to navigate its economic journey, it does so with a newfound caution, a testament to the wisdom of those who have walked the path before.