Malta has always been defined by the sea. It is the element that shaped our history, our culture and our economic direction. As someone who has worked offshore, in shipyards, in international ports and now in diplomacy, I have seen the maritime world from every angle. These experiences taught me that the sea is much more than open water. It is a place of discipline, cooperation and responsibility. This is why I have become a strong advocate for what I call Blue Diplomacy, a doctrine that should guide Malta’s maritime direction for the years ahead.
Blue Diplomacy is not a concept taken from books. It comes from practice and from real life. Anyone who has spent time at sea knows the most important rule. No one succeeds alone. Offshore you respect rules, you trust the people working beside you and you understand that every choice carries weight. The maritime sector functions on unity and professionalism, not on divided agendas. Blue Diplomacy brings this maritime mindset into our diplomatic behaviour and gives Malta a principled and credible way to engage with international partners.
The Government of Malta has long recognised the central importance of the maritime sector. Our influence on the international stage does not come from size. It comes from credibility, neutrality and consistent governance. Malta is respected in Europe, across the Mediterranean and within global maritime institutions because our regulatory approach has remained stable and responsible. Blue Diplomacy strengthens this position further by giving the country a clear strategic compass that connects policy, diplomacy and national interest.
In this context, it is also necessary to address a growing reality. In recent years, more NGOs, associations and private actors have been putting forward ideas and strategies for Malta’s maritime future. Their interest is positive and shows that our sector is active and creative. However, as a diplomat representing the State, I must underline respectfully that all proposals and initiatives must remain aligned with the national maritime direction set by the Government of Malta.
A maritime nation cannot advance if it moves in fragments. A strategy cannot be shaped around one stakeholder, one commercial interest or one specific agenda. Maritime policy must serve the full ecosystem. This includes shipowners, ports, seafarers, educators, regulators, innovators, offshore operators and national security. If each group follows its own compass, we lose coherence. If we follow one national compass, we progress as a united maritime nation.
This is not a criticism. It is a diplomatic reminder expressed with full respect. The Government sets the strategic direction for the maritime sector and all stakeholders must align with that direction if Malta is to grow sustainably and maintain its credibility.
It is also important to remember the people who make the maritime sector function. Behind every vessel, harbour call and offshore operation there are professionals whose work keeps global trade moving. The seafarer away from home for long periods. The tug master handling a ship in rough weather. The engineer in a shipyard working with precision. The surveyor ensuring that standards are met. Blue Diplomacy places these people at the centre of policy. Their welfare, training and safety are essential to Malta’s reputation and to the wider maritime world.
Blue Diplomacy also strengthens Malta’s international partnerships. Panama is an example. It is one of the world’s leading maritime nations and it shares our values of stability, neutrality and professionalism. The Panama Canal and the Mediterranean are two of the most important shipping routes in global trade. Through Blue Diplomacy, Malta and Panama can cooperate on cleaner shipping, digital transformation, maritime security and high standards of governance. This cooperation shows how two small but strategic nations can influence global maritime affairs when guided by principle and clarity.
Blue Diplomacy is not a slogan. It is a direction and a long-term policy approach that can strengthen Malta’s credibility, protect our unity and reinforce our international standing. It ensures that Malta speaks with one voice and remains focused on the national interest rather than fragmented interests.
As someone who has lived the maritime world from deck level to diplomatic representation, I believe strongly that Blue Diplomacy is the framework Malta needs. It reflects our identity, supports our people and prepares our nation for the challenges ahead. Malta has always answered the call of the sea. Through Blue Diplomacy, we are ready not only to answer but to lead.