Be the first to comment!Malta is one the best users of EU Funds – Commissioner Corina Cretu
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European Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Cretu, ending a two-day visit in Malta and Gozo, spoke about the EU-funded projects she visited, such as the Xewkija Industrial Estate in Gozo, Fort St Angelo in Birgu, the Kappara Junction, and the lower part of Valletta which will be regenerated in the coming months.
The Commissioner noted that “Malta is one of the best users of EU funds because the majority of the funds are allocated in substantial quantities that materialise in projects that significantly improve people’s standard of living.”
During a visit to the ongoing works at the Marsa Junction, the Commissioner described this project as the most symbolic project, as it mirrors very good use of EU funds.
Commissioner Cretu remarked that the use of EU Cohesion Funds in Malta, is a way how EU citizens are tangibly experiencing European Solidarity.
The Commissioner had been in Gozo this week for a Citizens’ Dialogue event with the Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella.
Days ahead of the discussions about the Multiannual Financial Framework, Commissioner Cretu said “this visit convinced me further that cohesion policy is needed now more than ever, to address the gap and disparities which we still have in Europe.”
Helena Dalli Minister for European Affairs and Equality, remarked that the Cohesion Policy is where Europe is closest to the citizen – “the human face of the EU” – and Commissioner Cretu’s visit helps citizens realise how EU funds are improving their lives.
Minister Dalli mentioned that the Commissioner met with various locals during her visit, which provided a unique opportunity to listen to what citizens had to say about Europe. “This is how we can reconnect Europe with its people,” said Dr Dalli.
Dr Dalli said she supports increased efforts towards implementing more effective communication actions at the level of the EU and the national level too, as this brings cohesion policy closer to its citizens in a concrete manner.
