George Vella gives formal backing to Joseph Muscat

Former Labour deputy leader George Vella has given his support to economist Joseph Muscat in the run-up to the European Parliament elections, being held on June 12.

Speaking at a gathering in Zebbug, Dr Vella explained how he was one of the persons who encouraged Mr Muscat to contest the EP elections.

"When I first nominated Joseph, I was sure that he could do a good job in the European Parliament," Dr Vella said. "Now that I have gained some more months of experience in Brussels, I am more than convinced that Joseph will fit perfectly within this institution. With Joseph Muscat, Labour will have an excellent representative for the whole country."

While expressing his confidence in the party's candidature, Dr Vella described Mr Muscat as one of the best-prepared candidates in these elections and called on voters to make an intelligent choice on June 12.

Dr Vella said that a person who is elected as a Member of the European Parliament must have concrete ideas and must be able to put them forward fluently. Mr Muscat has concrete ideas, knows how the system works and is clear-minded on how to work within the European Parliament, he said.

"Joseph is academically prepared and also has experience in this field. He has the energy and skills that would make him an excellent Member of the European Parliament. I look forward to seeing him there and working closely with him," concluded Dr Vella, who is now a member of the Presidium of the Party of European Socialists (PES).

Mr Muscat thanked Dr Vella for his endorsement and said that the former Deputy Prime Minister still has much to offer to the country. He said that personally he would continue seeking Dr Vella's advice in the country's best interests.

"We still need you George. Your job is not done yet. Whoever gets elected will need your expertise and contacts to secure the best benefits for the country and to protect workers and their families. I will want to work with you all the way for sure," Mr Muscat said to cheers from the crowd.

Dr Vella, along with former tourism minister Karmenu Vella, Labour's European affairs main spokesperson Evarist Bartolo and Gozitan campaigner Guza Cassar were the four persons to nominate Joseph Muscat for the EP elections when he submitted his candidature on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the gathering was also addressed by the former Speaker of the House of Representatives Daniel Micallef, and author Charles Flores. Dr Micallef said that he has been following and supporting Mr Muscat throughout the years and identified many positive attributes that can make him an excellent representative of the Maltese and Gozitan people.

The former Speaker said that he along with many other people will be placing their hope in Mr Muscat and will want him to fight for their rights and to put environment on top of the agenda.

Mr Flores also endorsed Mr Muscat, describing him as a person who has always shown where he stands and who is able to convince with solid arguments. Mr Flores said that Mr Muscat is the ideal candidate for these elections.