Peter Agius, former director of the European Parliament Office in Malta has officially launched his MEP candidature on the Nationalist Party ticket. 

"Eddie Fenech Adami promised a new spring for Malta in the EU. That promise
brought opportunity and prosperity for many Maltese... we opened horizons
for our youth, businesses and economy. Our islands went through a speedy
metamorphosis," he said in a statement.

"MCAST was born, now producing top professionals in their areas. We invested in a specialised oncology centre for the fight against cancer. Our islands got a general facelift from St Angelo to St Elmo to the many squares and churches restored with EU funds."

That spring must go on, Mr Agius said, adding that some sectors had not benefited from the "European dream" - including farmers, fishermen and the Gozitans.

Our small businesses have also had to adapt to many changes and stiff competition, with little help from the authorities, he added. 

The PN MEP candidate called for EU standards for pesticides and air quality, rule of law and money laundering among others. 

"The PN looks weak today, and yet it harbours all the conviction, strength and ability to advance the interests of the people of Malta and Gozo, better than anyone else," he said.