Malta: reservations about the Sarkozy-Merkel diktat and other news

Eurasia Partnership Capstone training in Malta again
More than 100 multinational naval and coast guard representatives attended an opening ceremony at the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) headquarters, Luqa Barracks, Malta, on December 4th, to kick off the week-long training collaboration, Eurasia Partnership Capstone (EPC) 2011. EPC is an annual maritime conference focused on working together in non-formal environments, such as seminars and workshops, aimed at increasing maritime safety and security. (maltamediaonline.com)

Muscat warns against tax harmonisation
Opposition leader Joseph Muscat says France and Germany cannot dictate what Europe should do while member states are expected to follow suit. "This is a crucial and delicate time for Europe, the eurozone and our country ... a time that calls for prudence and responsibility," Muscat said this evening, when speaking during a political activity organised by MEP Edward Scicluna. He called on Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi to work hand in hand with the Opposition, to together find a solution which would be of benefit not only to today's problems, but also safeguarding future generations. (maltatoday.com.mt)

PL disappointed at HFO decision
The Labour Party expressed disappointment at the decision by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority board which on Monday confirmed the government’s decision to operate the power station extension using the highly polluting heavy fuel oil, instead of starting the process for a gas operation. (independent.com.mt)

Powerboat racing: The Ukrainians went, raced and conquered!
The reflections expressed in our preview on the eve of the 31st Key West world championship staged at Key West Florida only three weeks ago were so very true. Appropriate words to go along with the character and qualities of Ukrainian Viktor Shemchuk, a Doctor of Philosophy in Law by profession, a powerboat sports aficionado, the president of the National Ukrainian Powerboat Federation and the proud owner of super powerboats Ukrainian Spirit and Seagull, so successful in Europe and now in America too. (independent.com.mt)

Launch of Government stocks switch auctions programme
As a result of the positive feedback received during the consultation period, the Treasury announces that it will be launching the first of such operations under the Programme by auctioning on a bid- price basis 4.30% MGS 2016(IV) (the “destination stock”) in exchange for up to Euro 200,000,000 (nominal) of 5.70% MGS 2012(III) (the “source/retiring stock”). The switch auction is open to all stockholders of 5.70% MGS 2012(III) and the applications shall be in the form of sealed bids for a minimum and multiples of €500,000 (nominal) each. In the case of applications in the name of ‘nominee and/or clients account’, the sealed bids shall be for minimum amounts exceeding €250,000 (nominal) each. (gozonews.com)