Students debate democracy and resilience in Mini-European Assembly at Maltese Parliament

May 1 2023

Students from Malta’s higher education institutions and Erasmus students debated the theme “Is democracy under threat?” and how to strengthen resilience in the European Union at the final plenary session of the 33rd edition of the Mini-European Assembly (MEA) held at the Maltese Parliament.

The Malta-based team representing The Netherlands emerged as the winner of the months-long debating competition inspired by the European Parliament and the parliamentary assembly of the Council of Europe.

Erasmus students joined the local team this year, giving the MEA a more international flavour.

Moderated by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr David Agius, the final debate featured a range of insights from various speakers, including European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, who praised the value of involving students in international affairs. “Democracy doesn’t happen by itself, each citizen needs to participate actively,” emphasised Dr Colin Scicluna, Head of Cabinet for the EC’s Vice President for Democracy and Demography Dubravka Šuica, highlighting the theme chosen for the final debate.

The event was jointly organised by the European Parliament Office in Malta, the National Student Travel Foundation, and the VisMedNet Association.

It was televised live on the Maltese Parliament’s TV Channel and livestreamed on parlament.mt.

The MEA is a simulation of the European Parliament with close ties to the parliamentary assembly of the Council of Europe, enabling students to discuss topics of European relevance through the political perspective of the European country they represent.

The winning team will visit the major European Institutions in Brussels, including the European Parliament.

#MaltaDaily

Mellieħa Fireworks win The International Fireworks Festival

May 1 2023

Għaqda tan-Nar Marija Bambina of Mellieħa has emerged victorious in the 2023 International Fireworks Festival held during the past few days.

The annual event, which attracts pyrotechnic teams from all over the world, was held in various localities around Malta and Gozo.

Għaqda tan-Nar Marija Bambina managed to win over the judges with their spectacular display of fireworks.

The team from Mellieħa showcased their skills and creativity, dazzling the audience with a stunning display of colourful fireworks.

The performance was a true reflection of the dedication and hard work they put into their craft.

The International Fireworks Festival is a highly anticipated event in Malta, and winning it is considered a significant achievement.

It is a testament to the team’s talent and expertise in the field of pyrotechnics, and it is sure to bring pride and recognition to the people of Mellieħa.

The victory of Għaqda tan-Nar Marija Bambina is a testament to the Maltese people’s passion and dedication to their traditions and culture.

#MaltaDaily

THE BUSKER’S FIRST REHEARSAL IN LIVERPOOL DONE AND DUSTED

May 1 2023

Excitement was in the air as Malta’s The Busker, took to the stage in Liverpool for their first rehearsal ahead of the contest next week.

Their upbeat song, “Dance (Our Own Party),” continue to promise to be a crowd-pleaser with its lively melody and catchy chorus.

Their first rehearsal demonstrated their ability to captivate audiences with their dynamic stage presence. The catchy lyrics and upbeat tempo of “Dance (Our Own Party)” are sure to get the audience moving.

With their infectious energy and captivating performance, The Busker are poised to make Malta proud in the upcoming contest.

#MaltaDaily

Seven young Syrians charged with accusations relating to terrorism

May 1 2023

Seven young Syrians were brought before Magistrate Astrid May Grima in court with charges related to terrorism.

The accused individuals, aged between 21 and 27 years old, include Ajil Al Muhsen, Adnan Maashi, Yazan Abduklaziz, Ahmed Kadas, Khalil Al Mahmoud, Ahmed Ahmed, and Mohammed Mohammed. Five of them reside in Hamrun, one in Tal-Pietà, and one in Birkirkara.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the various charges brought against them, including provoking the commission of terrorist activities with messages in public to incite a terrorist crime, recruiting or encouraging persons to commit terrorist acts, teaching individuals to use explosives or firearms, glorifying terrorist acts, promoting their commission, and creating a danger of terrorist acts being committed. They were also accused of attempting to travel to the EU to take part in terrorist activities.

The prosecution requested the seizure of all movable and immovable property of the accused, as well as their money. The defence argued that it does not make sense to make seizures on assets and money that do not reflect the period where the illicit gain was supposed to be made. However, Magistrate Grima accepted the prosecution’s request and ordered the seizure of all the accused individuals.

The accused were arrested in a joint operation by several police units, including Europol. Europol is the EU agency responsible for law enforcement in member countries.

The defence did not request the release of the accused from custody, and thus they remain in custody.

The charges brought against the accused are serious, and if found guilty, they could face severe penalties.

#MaltaDaily