THE PRESIDENT VISITS THE MALTA CENTRE FOR RESTORATION

H.E. Prof. Guido de Marco, President of Malta, this morning paid an official visit to the Malta Centre for Restoration at Bighi, Kalkara. He was welcomed by Dr. Joseph Cannataci, Chairman of the Centre together with the Board of Governors.

H.E. The President was accompanied around the Centre's workshops, lecture rooms and laboratories where he was given practical explanations by the lecturers and staff.

At the end of his visit, President de Marco described his visit as "a voyage of discovery". The President referred to the fact that the Centre has benefitted from over Lm400,000 towards its establishment, under the terms of the 4^th Financial Protocol with the Italian Government. This reflects the close collaboration between Malta and Italy and how funds can be channelled to a very good effect. The Centre, said the President, can become a regional restoration centre high in standards, in equipment and techniques.

H.E. The President highlighted the importance of the Restoration Centre and its relevance to the Maltese public. He also referred to the three Presidential Palaces which form part of Malta's national heritage and history and the need to preserve them through time.

The Chairman and the Board of Governors of the Malta Restoration Centre later hosted H.E. The President to a luncheon at the Centre.