President Emeritus Edoardo Fenech Adami is celebrating his 87th birthday. Eddie, as known by the locals, is a Maltese politician who played a pivotal part in local politics during his terms in various roles. To celebrate his birthday, we're marking the achievements and milestones of one of Malta's best loved politicians.

1. He was a great leader

Eddie, a lawyer by profession who became the Nationalist’s party leader in 1977, was a man of the people and led his party to win five elections between 1981 and 2003. The esteemed politician served as Prime Minister from 1987 to 1996 and between 1998 and 2004. He was the Leader of the Opposition in between his terms as Head of Government and was President of the Republic for five years from 2004 until 2009.

2. He got Malta into the EU

The application process started during his first term as Prime Minister, but was put on hold during the brief two years that the Labour party was in Government. Negotiations were finalised in 2002 during his second term. He also represented Malta in various EU Summits and Commonwealth meetings.

3. Eddie brought about an overhaul to Malta’s infrastructure

Eddie campaigned for a total overhaul of the physical infrastructure on the Maltese Islands. Many roads were reconstructed, a new airport, reverse osmosis plants, and a power station were built on his watch.

4. He is the longest serving PM since Malta’s Independence

Eddie Fenech Adami is the longest serving Maltese Prime Minister since Malta’s Independence. He first served from 1987 until 1996, and again from 1998 until 2004.

5. “An important and influential figure”

Former Prime Minster Joseph Muscat describes Eddie as “undoubtedly one of the most important and influential figures in Malta’s political history.” He carried out negotiations and peace treaties with various countries.

6. All about family

The Fenech Adamis were, and still are, a tight-knit family. Family values were always at the core of Eddie’s politics, with his wife Mary right by his side. The couple have five children: John, Beppe, Michael, Maria and Luigi, and many grandchildren.

Wishing you a very happy birthday, Eddie!