MALTA (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Former Foreign Minister and long-serving Nationalist MP Francis Zammit Dimech has passed away at the age of 70, Opposition Leader Bernard Grech announced on Monday afternoon.
Zammit Dimech, a towering figure in Maltese politics for over three decades, was remembered by political leaders across the spectrum as a statesman of rare dignity, intellect, and grace.
In an emotional tribute posted on Facebook, Bernard Grech who is on an official visit to China, described the veteran politician as “a true gentleman” who dedicated his life to public service. “He had a way of smoothing over any difficulty, resolving every disagreement, and even when faced with tough times, he always had a smile,” Grech wrote. “Francis, I find myself without the words to truly convey the sadness we are all experiencing. Thank you, dear Francis. We will always be proud of who you were and what you did.”
President of Malta Myriam Spiteri Debono also paid tribute, praising Zammit Dimech’s unwavering commitment to his country. “Dr Zammit Dimech dedicated his life to public service. He represented Malta at European and local level, and earned the respect of all those who worked with him, regardless of political views,” she said.
She noted his recent service as Acting President of Malta, even while facing health challenges. “He continued to serve the country even when he was going through a difficult period of health,” Spiteri Debono said, extending condolences to his loved ones.
Prime Minister Robert Abela also expressed his sorrow, describing Zammit Dimech as a “gentleman politician” known for his respectful and principled manner. “Malta remains grateful for Zammit Dimech’s service, even when he was recently appointed Acting President despite facing health challenges,” the Prime Minister said.
Speaker of the House Anġlu Farrugia joined the chorus of tributes, stating that Zammit Dimech’s legacy was one of integrity and unwavering commitment to democratic values. “His decades of public service—both in Parliament and in Government—were marked by integrity and a steadfast commitment to Malta’s democracy,” Farrugia said on behalf of the House of Representatives.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola described him as an honest friend, and thanked him for the advice he gave her when she was contesting her first MEP election. “Francis was the personification of someone who dedicates his life to Maltese society and the Maltese and Gozitan people,” she said.
Born on October 23, 1954, Francis Zammit Dimech entered politics in 1987 and served as a member of the House of Representatives until 2017. He briefly represented Malta in the European Parliament from 2017 to 2019 and later served as interim secretary-general of the Nationalist Party in 2020.
Over his long political career, he held several ministerial portfolios, including foreign affairs, transport and communications, environment and resources, infrastructure, tourism, and culture. His tenure as Foreign Minister in Lawrence Gonzi’s government from 2012 to 2013 capped a career defined by public engagement and statesmanship.
In April 2024, he was appointed Acting President of Malta during the absence of the incumbent, further underscoring his continued dedication to national service despite personal health struggles.
Outside of politics, Zammit Dimech was a seasoned lawyer and academic. He chaired his law firm, Francis Zammit Dimech Associates, and was a recognised authority in international law, financial services, and corporate governance. He held degrees in law and financial services from the University of Malta, an MBA from Henley Business School, and was pursuing a PhD in Law of Broadcasting at the time of his passing.
A former journalist and lecturer, Zammit Dimech contributed significantly to Maltese media and academia, having worked with publications including ‘The Times of Malta’ and taught European media law at the University of Malta.
As Malta mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished public figures, tributes continue to pour in for a man remembered not only for his accomplishments but for his humility, kindness, and enduring commitment to public life.
Photo press office PN
