Luanda, Angola recently played host to the 147th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), where politicians from across the globe gathered to deliberate on pivotal issues. Among those who took the stage during this prestigious event was Maltese MP Randolph De Battista, who addressed the assembly in a compelling speech.

The IPU Assembly, held between October 23 and 27, focused its debates on the theme of “action by parliaments for peace, justice, and strong institutions.” This theme is in line with one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising the importance of people’s trust in institutions and their capacity to meet the needs of all individuals equitably and sustainably.

In his address during the Young Parliamentarians segment in the general debate, MP De Battista emphasised a fundamental aspect of leadership: that leaders exist to serve all people. For trust to be fostered in our institutions, people must feel a sense of belonging. MP De Battista pointed to an event that took place last month in the Maltese Parliament, where LGBTIQ+ parliamentarians from various corners of the world came together to discuss the importance of a more equal and just representation.

Moreover, MP De Battista echoed a call made by Mr. Jerry Buttimer, President of the Irish Senate, for the IPU to intensify its efforts in promoting and defending the rights of LGBTIQ+ parliamentarians. As part of Intersex Awareness Day, MP De Battista also commended Dimakatso and Sharon Rose, two intersex youths from South Africa. These remarkable individuals shared their experiences through a new film titled “WHO I AM NOT,” contributing to the broader conversation on diversity and inclusion.

The Maltese MP underlined the need for global peace by emphasizing the importance of reducing the prevalence of weapons and weapon financing in the world. Addressing the escalating tensions in the Middle East, he called for a stronger commitment to ensuring that both the people of Palestine and Israel can coexist without fear of violence and intimidation.

In a heartfelt conclusion to his speech, MP De Battista made a compelling appeal for mutual respect. He acknowledged that achieving world peace may seem utopian in the current climate; nevertheless, he urged everyone to direct their efforts toward this noble goal. De Battista encouraged politicians to focus on fostering a spirit of cooperation rather than seeking to determine a victor. Such a stance, he argued, would ultimately lead to a world in which innocent people, humanity, and the world as a whole do not suffer the consequences of division and conflict.

The Maltese parliamentary delegation to the 147th IPU Assembly, led by Speaker Anġlu Farrugia, also included MP Robert Cutajar. Together, they represented Malta on the global stage, advocating for the values of peace, justice, and inclusivity.

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Preserving the Past and Building the Future!

This architectural marvel of Karl Sammut Alessi is an extension over an existing three-story façade, carefully designed to seamlessly blend with the historic surroundings. Nestled within a bustling district of high-rise buildings, where extensions often disregard the original structures and Malta’s rich architectural heritage, this building extension stands out as a beacon of innovation and respect for the past.

What sets this building apart is its deep reverence for the original structure. Instead of overpowering it, this extension gracefully integrates with the existing facade, adding a contemporary touch to the traditional architecture of Malta. The result is a breathtaking elevation that captivates the viewer and demonstrates that the marriage of past and present can be truly magnificent.

One of the most notable features of this building is its intelligent use of traditional materials, elements, and motifs. It doesn’t merely replicate the past; it reinterprets it through a modern lens. This approach adds a unique character to the building, making it a testament to the island’s rich heritage and its commitment to a promising future.

Located in the heart of Sliema, a thriving hub of development and activity, this building extension maintains a sense of respect for its surroundings. While the district boasts high-rise buildings and contemporary developments, this structure stands out by not relying on wide glazed voids that often mar the streetscape. Instead, it seeks to enhance the urban fabric while preserving the essence of the area.

One of the most commendable aspects of this project is the restoration of the underlying facade. Rather than neglecting or overshadowing the original building, it has been lovingly restored, allowing the past and present to coexist harmoniously. This is in stark contrast to numerous other buildings where extensions have been carried out with little regard for the streetscape, contributing little to the overall aesthetics of the area.

#MaltaDaily