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1st Maltese Presidency Of OSCE Conference Held In Malta

1st Maltese Presidency Of OSCE Conference Held In Malta
Apr 9 2024 Share

The annual conference on anti-Semitism commenced in Malta under the auspices of the OSCE, marking the first such gathering during Malta’s presidency of this international organization. Ian Borg, Malta’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, currently serving as Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE, stressed the urgent need for a collective response against anti-Semitism and all forms of intolerance and discrimination. Minister Borg emphasized adherence to OSCE’s fundamental principles of equality, tolerance, non-discrimination, and respect for all individuals irrespective of their beliefs or ethnicity.

Highlighting the global threat posed by anti-Semitism, religious intolerance, and xenophobia, Minister Borg called for proactive measures and educational initiatives to enhance understanding and acceptance. He also reflected on Malta’s historical role in sheltering Jewish refugees during World War II. Minister Borg commended the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) within the OSCE for its efforts in promoting human rights protection and thanked his Special Representatives for Tolerance and Non-Discrimination.

Minister Borg concluded by urging collective commitment towards creating a world free from fear and discrimination. The conference in St. Julian’s saw participation from 47 delegations representing 57 OSCE-affiliated countries. Key speeches were delivered by OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid, ODIHR Director Matteo Meccaci, and other OSCE officials. Minister Borg also engaged in bilateral meetings with prominent figures including US Special Representative Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt and Israel’s Ambassador Zeev Boker, among others.

#MaltaDaily

Over 25% Of Mt Carmel Patients Suffer Substance Abuse

Over 25% Of Mt Carmel Patients Suffer Substance Abuse
Apr 9 2024 Share

During a parliamentary session on Monday, Health Minister Joe Etienne Abela disclosed that over 25% of the patients at Mount Carmel Hospital are affected by substance abuse.

This information was revealed in response to a query from PN MP Ian Vassallo regarding the proportion of hospital patients admitted due to substance use.

Abela specified that 25.75% of the hospital’s current patient population has a history of substance use. Situated in Attard, Mount Carmel Hospital offers both inpatient and outpatient mental health services.

#MaltaDaily

Malta With Highest Population Density Amidst European Countries

Malta With Highest Population Density Amidst European Countries
Apr 9 2024 Share

According to a recent infographic shared by @theeuropeancorrespondent featuring Our World In Data 2024 statistics, Malta stands out at the top spot with a remarkable population density of 1,677 people per square kilometre.

This significantly surpasses the next country on the list, The Netherlands, which has 525 people per square kilometre, less than one-third of Malta’s density.

Explaining Malta’s high population density, the page noted that being one of the world’s smallest countries with limited available land for expansion has naturally led to a concentration of population in a compact space.

Migration patterns, economic opportunities, and urbanisation have also contributed to the density observed in Malta today, the page explains.

In stark contrast, Iceland occupies the opposite end of the spectrum with just four people per square kilometre. Following Iceland are northern European and Scandinavian countries like Norway, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, and Estonia, which also boast low population densities compared to Malta.

#MaltaDaily

Pedestrians Walk On As Crates Dangle Overhead In Sliema

Pedestrians Walk On As Crates Dangle Overhead In Sliema
Apr 9 2024 Share

In Sliema, a concerning incident unfolded when a contractor failed to secure a large load of around 20 blue crates dangling perilously over pedestrians at the Fortina development.

Shocked bystanders witnessed this hazardous scene on Saturday morning, with the crates suspended approximately 12 floors up.

Photographer Rene Rossignaud captured footage of the crates supported precariously by a wooden palette and two straps, highlighting the absence of adequate safety measures.

According to Times of Malta, Fortina Investments reportedly and promptly issued an apology, acknowledging the oversight, while the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) initiated an investigation into the incident.

The footage revealed that although some metal barriers were placed, the area was not fully cordoned off, endangering unaware pedestrians passing underneath. Rossignaud noted ongoing crate transfers without proper safety protocols, contrasting with previous instances where the area had been properly secured.

Fortina Investments emphasized safety as a priority and expressed regret over the lapse, vowing to prevent such occurrences in the future.

#MaltaDailyee