Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri attended and addressed the MedCat Days 2026 conference in Barcelona, where he stated that ”the Pact for the Mediterranean should strengthen territorial cooperation to be relevant to islands like Gozo, which have unique characteristics.”

He emphasised the importance of regions and local authorities in the achievement of the objectives of the Pact for the Mediterranean, stating that they play a key role in translating the strategic vision into concrete action with benefits for Mediterranean citizens and communities.

MedCat Days 2026, which took place between 9th and 10th of July, was organised by the Government of Catalonia and the European Institute for the Mediterranean (IEMed) in Barcelona, ??and focused on how regional and local authorities will participate in the Pact for the Mediterranean.

Camilleri explained that “the Mediterranean base with various regions from around the Mediterranean all have one goal, that the Mediterranean remains one strong one and that there are better solutions for each region, so that it can move not only at its own pace, but at a coordinated pace and without any duplication. Ultimately, all with the aim of so that the various regions that we have in the Mediterranean, both the European ones and the North African ones, can progress forward, all together, for the good of all these regions.”

The Gozo Minister continued by saying that the implementation of the Pact should build on existing cooperation frameworks, to avoid duplication and maximise its impact, especially in the case of small administrations. The Pact requires a participatory way of working, involving civil society, communities, and regional and local authorities.

He mentioned how the Ministry for Gozo welcomed the Pact as a ”timely initiative that strengthens cooperation between the European Union and its Mediterranean partnerships, based on shared responsibility, dialogue and mutual benefit.”

Camilleri explained that, in a time of geopolitical challenges, climate change, migratory pressures and economic uncertainty, the Pact provides an important framework to strengthen resilience and prosperity in the region.

He noted that among the opportunities it offers are sustainable investment, new opportunities for young people and businesses, green and digital transitions, as well as increased cooperation in the areas of water, energy and security.

Minister Camilleri stated that regional and local authorities have a crucial role to play in promoting territorial cooperation, innovation and initiatives that respond to the needs of communities.

He said that this is particularly relevant for territories with dual insularity such as Gozo, where local experiences can contribute to solutions that are of value to the entire Mediterranean.

Regarding cooperation with Mediterranean partners, the Minister said that there should be a flexible approach that respects the realities of each country and reflects the priorities of those in the Southern Mediterranean. He added that these principles also reflect Malta’s national priorities and its commitment to Euro-Mediterranean cooperation.

MedCat Days 2026 is an annual forum that brings together political leaders, policy makers, regional and local authorities, international organisations and academics among others. This year’s theme focused on how Mediterranean governance can become more effective and results-oriented in the implementation of the Pact for the Mediterranean.

Photo: DOI

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