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MED-9 Countries Unite for Regional Prosperity and Global Challenges

Sep 30 2023 Share

In a show of unity and determination, leaders from Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Portugal, Slovenia, Italy, Malta, and the Secretary of State for European Affairs of Spain convened for the 10th Summit of the Southern countries of the European Union (MED-9) in Valletta on September 29, 2023. This high-level gathering aimed to address pressing regional and global issues while strengthening cooperation among the participating nations.

The summit commenced with expressions of solidarity for the victims of recent natural disasters in the Mediterranean region. The leaders affirmed their commitment to supporting affected areas and highlighted the importance of international collaboration in times of crisis.

Amidst a backdrop of global challenges, including Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and economic pressures, the Southern EU countries came together to find innovative and strategic solutions based on dialogue. They sought to contribute to comprehensive European policies promoting peace, stability, and prosperity.

Key highlights of the MED-9 Summit’s declaration include:

1. Strengthening the Mediterranean Region:

  • Emphasising the importance of a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Mediterranean for a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Europe.
  • Welcoming the renewed focus on strengthening EU relations with Southern Neighbourhood partners and implementing the New Agenda for the Mediterranean.
  • Advocating for comprehensive partnerships that empower Southern Neighbours while acknowledging their diversity.
  • Promoting increased synergies with the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and enhancing governance in the Southern partnership.

2. Supporting Ukraine:

  • Reiterating condemnation of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine.
  • Affirming commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
  • Calling for Russia’s immediate withdrawal from Ukrainian territory.
  • Supporting Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction efforts, including defining initiatives.

3. Addressing Security Concerns:

  • Recognising the security challenges stemming from Russia’s aggression and the deteriorating situation in the Sahel and North Africa.
  • Highlighting the negative impact on the Mediterranean’s security and its implications for the EU.
  • Addressing food insecurity and supporting affected partner countries through Solidarity Lanes.

4. Tackling Irregular Migration:

  • Acknowledging the challenge of irregular migration and the need for a holistic European response.
  • Urging progress in negotiations on the Pact on Migration and Asylum.
  • Advocating for increased efforts on the external dimension to prevent departures and address root causes while respecting fundamental rights.

5. Climate Action and Adaptation:

  • Recognising the impact of climate change on the Mediterranean region, including extreme weather events.
  • Urging concerted climate action based on scientific evidence.
  • Underlining the need for climate adaptation efforts, especially in healthcare, agriculture, energy, and tourism.

6. Energy Independence and Renewables:

  • Committing to accelerate EU decarbonisation efforts and energy independence.
  • Supporting regional energy interconnections and green energy corridors.
  • Encouraging cooperation with the European Commission to achieve shared energy goals.

7. Social Europe and Education:

  • Promoting ambitious upskilling and lifelong learning policies.
  • Prioritising education and training to address demographic challenges and enhance human capital.
  • Focusing on the social dimension of EU policy to reduce inequalities and protect citizens.

8. Economic Governance and Trade:

  • Advocating for a reformed Economic Governance Framework in the EU.
  • Recognising the need for mid-term revision of the Multi-Annual Financial Framework.
  • Emphasising the importance of free and fair trade policy, including ambitious trade agreements with strategic partners.

9. Enlargement and Regional Peace:

  • Reaffirming commitment to the EU membership perspective for Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine.
  • Recognising enlargement as a means of enhancing regional peace, security, and prosperity.

The 10th MED-9 Summit in Valletta demonstrated the Southern EU countries’ dedication to addressing complex challenges and fostering cooperation in various sectors. As they look forward to their next summit in Cyprus, these nations remain committed to shaping a prosperous and secure Mediterranean region.

#MaltaDaily 

Farewell to Air Malta?

Sep 30 2023 Share

In a long-anticipated move, reports are claiming that, the Maltese government is set to unveil its plans for a new national airline, poised to replace Air Malta. 

After marathon discussions and negotiations with the European Commission, the official announcement is scheduled for Monday.

As reported by The Times, passengers can rest assured that the transition to the new airline will not disrupt flight schedules.

The number of aircraft in the fleet will remain unchanged, and even the airline’s name will stay the same. This strategic approach aims to minimise any inconvenience for travellers and maintain the high level of service they have come to expect from Air Malta.

One of the most crucial aspects of this transition is the retention of Air Malta’s workforce. While details regarding the integration process are yet to be fully disclosed, it is expected that existing employees will have a place in the new airline. This move reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding jobs within the aviation sector.

The government’s official announcement, to be delivered by Finance Minister Clyde Caruana on Monday, will provide the public with a comprehensive overview of the new airline’s structure and operations. This eagerly awaited disclosure will clarify the exact nature of the changes and the future prospects for the aviation industry in Malta.

In a noteworthy development, the new airline is set to be named “KM Malta Airlines plc.”

#MaltaDaily 

Half Of The Maltese People Think They Will Go To Heaven

Sep 30 2023 Share

In a surprising revelation, it turns out that almost half of the Maltese population believes in a celestial journey after death.

According to a study conducted by the Faculty for the Strengthening of Society at the University of Malta, approximately 46% of respondents firmly hold the belief that they will ascend to heaven when they pass away.

The study, aptly named ‘Death Attitude Profile amongst the Maltese Population,’ delved into the minds of 400 individuals, shedding light on their thoughts, fears, and beliefs surrounding the inevitable end of life. What emerged was a captivating mosaic of attitudes, both deeply personal and culturally significant.

Interestingly, the data reveals that it is the older generation, primarily those over the age of 65, who tend to embrace the idea of an afterlife with open arms. A whopping 32% of respondents in this age group expressed their hope of reuniting with departed loved ones in the hereafter.

However, the study also exposes a broader perspective on death. A staggering 78% of respondents, predominantly older individuals, view death as a liberator from pain and suffering. This notion resonates deeply with the Maltese culture, where the idea of release from earthly woes holds great significance.

Intriguingly, the study uncovered an apprehension surrounding discussions of death. The Dean of the Faculty for the Strengthening of Society, Professor Andrew Azzopardi, highlighted that death remains a largely taboo subject in Malta.

The study further explored the unease surrounding death, with 59% of respondents admitting that contemplating their own mortality incites anxiety. Surprisingly, more than half of those surveyed confessed that they actively avoid discussing or even thinking about death altogether.

#MaltaDaily 

OneRepublic’s Latest Music Video Was Filmed In Malta

Sep 30 2023 Share

In a recent Instagram post, Isle of MTV Malta shared an intriguing behind-the-scenes reel of none other than the celebrated American pop-rock band, OneRepublic.

Isle of MTV announced that OneRepublic’s ‘Mirage’ Music Video that has racked up close to 2 million views on YouTube in just 7 days, was filmed in Malta.

OneRepublic, renowned for their catchy tunes and poignant lyrics, have consistently delivered chart-toppers over the years. With hits like “Counting Stars” and “Apologize,” they have firmly secured their spot in the hearts of fans worldwide. Now, they’ve graced the picturesque Mediterranean island of Malta to shoot the music video for their latest song, ‘Mirage.’

The teaser reel shared by Isle of MTV Malta gives us a glimpse into the magic that unfolded behind the scenes, led by the charismatic Ryan Tedder.

OneRepublic’s music videos have always been visually captivating, and ‘Mirage’ follows suit.

#MaltaDaily