In a statement by the Grimaldi Group, is reserved exclusively for foreign figures who have rendered exceptional service to the nation,

On the occasion of Malta's Republic Day, Emanuele Grimaldi, CEO of the Grimaldi Group, was named an honorary member of the National Order of Merit of Malta. The investiture ceremony was held in the Grand Council Chamber at the Presidential Palace in Valletta. The honor was bestowed by the President of the Republic, Myriam Spiteri Debono, upon the recommendation of Prime Minister Robert Abela. The title, as explained in a statement by the Grimaldi Group, is reserved exclusively for foreign figures who have rendered exceptional service to the nation, promoting international relations and supporting the archipelago's economy.

Establish Malta as a major maritime hub.

This appointment cements a bond between the Grimaldi Group and Malta that has lasted over half a century. Emanuele Grimaldi, who has also held the global role of President of the International Chamber of Shipping since 2022, has worked tirelessly to establish Malta as a major maritime hub.

MISA (Malta International Shipowners' Association)

His institutional commitment, already demonstrated at the helm of ECSA (the European Community Shipowners' Association) and Confitarma, is directly reflected in Malta's economic fabric. Grimaldi is, in fact, among the founders and current Vice President of MISA (Malta International Shipowners' Association). The result of this synergy is the Maltese shipping register's record in Europe in terms of number of registered vessels.

 Grimaldi ships have never stopped operating.

The recognition highlights the Group's ability to ensure territorial and commercial continuity even in the darkest moments. During the pandemic, as well as in recent years marked by geopolitical instability and inflation, Grimaldi ships have never stopped operating. The Group has continued to invest in a modern and sustainable fleet, ensuring the supply of essential goods for the Maltese islands through extraordinary measures when necessary.

"I am deeply honored to receive this recognition," commented Emanuele Grimaldi. "Malta holds a special place in the Group's history and future: it is not only a strategic maritime hub in the heart of the Mediterranean, but a long-standing partner in our growth journey."

Malta holds a special place in the Group's history and future

Grimaldi extended its gratitude to the entire supply chain: "Our ports, our ships, and our workers have never stopped, demonstrating how essential trade is to navigating times of enormous difficulty and uncertainty. Heartfelt thanks go to the entire Maltese port community who, together with our seafarers, have distinguished themselves in facing unprecedented challenges." The Group's presence in Malta goes beyond the simple port of call: through regular connections with Italian hubs such as Genoa, Livorno, Catania, and Salerno, Grimaldi ensures the export and import of rolling cargo (cars, trucks, vans), connecting the island to global routes via transshipment

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The Grimaldi Group in Malta comprises several entities: Malta Motorways of the Seas Ltd, a shipowner based in Valletta; shipbroking (Malta Shipbrokers International); and crew management (Grimaldi Marine Partners Ltd). The Group's operations are supported by the well-established local port and commercial agents, Sullivan Maritime Ltd.

Twelve of the Group's vessels, including several Atlantic Container Line vessels, proudly fly the Maltese flag, according to the Grimaldi Group statement.

The Group also focuses on the younger generations. Since 2006, Malta Motorways of the Seas has collaborated with Mcast – Maritime Institute, supporting Maltese cadets in their officer training through placements on both its own ships and other vessels in the Grimaldi Group fleet. Recently, a new agreement with MaritimeMT, one of Malta's leading maritime training institutes, aims to strengthen Malta's role as a maritime hub and support the younger generations of seafarers.

With a view to future expansion, Malta Motorways of the Seas is establishing a new ISM (International Safety Management) company on site, which will lead to the hiring of Maltese professionals and the strengthening of port logistics and crew management services.

Source : Shipping Italy 

The Grimaldi Group ,Emanuele Grimaldi, MISA, ECSA, Honorary Member ,National Order ,Merit of Malta , Myriam Spiteri Debono, ,Robert Abela