Minister for Gozo, Clint Camilleri, has participated in a high-level discussion with Ms. Gesine Meissner, European Coordinator, and representatives of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR) regarding the development of the European Maritime Space.
During the discussion, the Minister emphasised the importance of maritime connectivity for islands and peripheral regions, maintaining that for both Gozo and Malta, maritime transport is an essential lifeline upon which economic activity, social cohesion, and territorial development depend.
Minister Camilleri stated, “together with other representatives from various regions across Europe, we held discussions with the European coordinator for transport and maritime affairs, outlining the specific needs and requirements of Europe’s peripheral regions. We addressed the importance of the Mgarr Harbour in Gozo and the necessary investment required there, as well as the support Europe will provide to these small regions to enable them to modernise their fleets and improve port accessibility. Ultimately, these ports remain the vital link connecting these regions and islands to the rest of the European continent. We will continue working – including at the European level – to ensure that the voices of Gozo and Malta are heard where it matters most.”
He emphasised the need for the European Maritime Space to pay greater attention to island connectivity through maritime links that are resilient, affordable, and available year-round. He also spoke about the importance of ensuring that Public Service Obligation routes and small regional ports receive appropriate recognition and support.
The Minister further stated that the green transition should strengthen, rather than weaken, maritime connectivity. Consequently, he called for targeted support for the decarbonisation and modernisation of small-scale maritime transport serving islands and their ports.
As part of the delegation from the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR), Minister Camilleri also met with Member of the European Parliament Sergio Goncalves – the Rapporteur for the European Parliament’s own-initiative report on the EU Ports Strategy.
The meeting focused on the work currently underway within the European Parliament and the next steps regarding the European Ports Strategy.
He advocated for a strategy that acknowledges the specific challenges faced by islands, ensures fair access to funding, strikes a balance between competitiveness and territorial cohesion, and provides adequate support for decarbonisation.
Minister Clint Camilleri concluded by emphasising the need for European policies to ensure that no island or peripheral region is left behind in the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient maritime sector.
Photo: DOI