Air Malta plays an important role in the government's vision of Malta, excelling in six areas which are set to be the strong pillars of the country's economy, Finance and Economy Minister Tonio Fenech said yesterday.

These pillars were information and communication technology, financial services, tourism, higher education, health and the manufacturing industry.

Mr Fenech was speaking at the opening of the three-day Air Malta International Travel Exhibition (Amitex) at the Malta Fairs and Convention Centre at Ta' Qali.

He said Malta will need a strong national carrier that portrays the islands' commitment to excellence and that provides the links to support the growth of these sectors.

"Air Malta was and will remain a key player in achieving these goals but also as we seek to achieve stronger economic growth and generate more employment," Mr Fenech said.

He recalled that, a few years ago, the government had embarked on a wide ranging reform of the tourism sector and, in order to attract more tourists, decided that both the opening towards low-cost airlines and the strengthening of Air Malta were essential in achieving this goal.

"Today, I am happy to note that the government's strategy is proving successful and we are on the right track. Within this success, I must emphasise Air Malta's role in providing the country with air transport connectivity with the rest of the world, which drives our economic development. The government's position is that a national carrier is critical in achieving certain objectives such as connecting our country to not so profitable routes," he said.