Grand 50th anniversary party

Michael Debono Ltd recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of Toyota in Malta and in Europe at the Saluting Battery below Upper Barrakka gardens in Valletta. Managing directors Therese Debono and her sons, Geoffrey and Michael, welcomed the guests.

The celebration party was attended by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Resources Minister George Pullicino, MP Gavin Gulia and other distinguished guests. Naoya Taniguchi, chairman of Toyota - Great Britain; Makoto Sasagawa, chief coordinating executive - Toyota Motor Europe; and Miguel Fonseca and his wife Paula flew to Malta for the occasion. Antonia Debono, widow of founder Michael Debono, was also present.

Geoffrey Debono said: "50 years ago our small company opened the first Toyota dealership in Europe and also sold the first Toyota car in Europe, which stands here today in its restored glory".

Describing his late grandfather, Michael Debono and his late father Philip Debono as pioneers with great vision and acumen, he also thanked the employees, describing them as the company's most important asset.

During a short presentation, Mr Sasagawa presented a commemoration plaque on behalf of Tadashi Arashima, Toyota Motor Corporation senior managing director and TME president and chief executive officer to Geoffrey Debono as a show of appreciation.

Geoffrey Debono presented silver medals marking Toyota's 50th anniversary in Malta to his grandmother, to Dr Gonzi, Dr Gulia and to the foreign representatives.

A ceremonial gun salute was fired when the Toyopet Crown Deluxe was unveiled by Michael Debono and Mr Sasagawa to the guests.

The String Quartet entertained guests with their classical repertoire throughout the evening.