Via Dante and Corso Vittorio Emmanuele in the precincts of the Duomo in Milan are all decorated with the flags of the 120 countries taking part in storing the forthcoming Expo, where over one million visitors are expected.

There has been much preparation, including the construction of buildings, pavilions and restoring the Navigli to their original beauty.

Participating countries are busy opening offices and preparing for this international event.

There is already competition between participating countries, though the US has as yet not signed the contract.

Expo’s CEO, Giuseppe Sala, has just returned from Asia where he signed contracts with Japan and China, as well as Korea.

Visitors from these countries besides the Expo pavilions are also interested to see what Milan offers in fashion, design, music and football. When I walk through the centre I look out for the Maltese flag. There are only 500 days left till the Expo and I hope Malta will wake up.

Air Malta, tourism and business offices as well as Bank of Valletta have all cut resources in Milan. All this while many countries are throwing anchor in Italy’s financial capital notwithstanding the economic crisis.

Furthermore, the current Consul for Malta is nowhere to be heard or seen. With all due respect, the Maltese embassy in Rome has hardly ever in all my 40 years in Milan made an appearance.

I hope the current Government will treat this Expo with the importance and urgency it deserves.

I would like to experience the pride of seeing Malta’s flag alongside the flags of other nations.