Planning Integrity Under Fire: Eleven environmental and residents’ groups have urged Prime Minister Robert Abela to sack Planning Authority CEO Johann Buttigieg, calling for an independent probe into his communications and warning of public mobilisation after revelations involving Buttigieg and businessman Yorgen Fenech. Diplomatic Milestones: Malta’s President Miriam Spiteri Debono marked Independence Day with congratulatory messages from UAE leaders and other heads of state, while China’s ambassador Zhang Zuo also met the President to discuss cooperation. Foreign Policy in Multilateral Forums: Malta’s Foreign Minister Chris Fearne chaired a Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group meeting in New York, with Zambia’s foreign minister among participants. Malta in EU Aviation Trends: Eurostat reports EU commercial flights topped 2 million between June and August 2026, with Malta among the biggest annual risers in August. International Spotlight on Malta: Malta hosted Dutch TV and film production De Bevers, supported by the Malta Film Commission. Tourism Competition Watch: Eurostat data shows Malta’s Mediterranean tourism growth outpacing Croatia, while Cyprus saw a notable flight decline.