VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta’s Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri has called for the proposed Mediterranean Pact to place greater emphasis on territorial cooperation, arguing that islands with unique characteristics such as Gozo require tailored policies.
Addressing the MedCat Days conference in Barcelona, Camilleri said regional and local authorities are essential to translating the Pact’s strategic objectives into practical measures that benefit Mediterranean communities.
He said Mediterranean regions share a common goal of ensuring the basin remains strong through coordinated action, enabling both European and North African regions to progress together while avoiding unnecessary duplication.
Camilleri argued that implementation of the Pact should build on existing cooperation frameworks to maximise its impact, particularly for smaller administrations, while adopting a participatory approach involving civil society, local communities and regional authorities.
The minister said the Ministry for Gozo welcomes the initiative as a timely framework to deepen cooperation between the European Union and its Mediterranean partners through shared responsibility, dialogue and mutual benefit.
He said the Pact comes at a critical time as the region faces geopolitical tensions, climate change, migration pressures and economic uncertainty, offering opportunities to strengthen resilience and prosperity.
Among its potential benefits, Camilleri highlighted sustainable investment, new opportunities for young people and businesses, support for the green and digital transitions, and closer cooperation on water, energy and security.
He stressed that regional authorities have a key role in promoting innovation and territorial cooperation, particularly in areas with double insularity such as Gozo, where local experience can help shape solutions for the wider Mediterranean.
Camilleri also called for a flexible approach to cooperation with Mediterranean partners that respects the different realities and priorities of countries on the southern shores of the region.
– photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
