Malta celebrates this 20-year journey of EU membership "not merely as a passage of time but as a beacon of our collective achievements and also, our joint aspirations and commitment to the European values that we so dearly cherish," Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg said during a conference at the Aula Magna, Valletta Campus in Valletta.

He reflected on two decades of remarkable progress and achievements within the European community and spoke about the way forward where Malta remains committed towards European values of solidarity, unity, and cooperation.

"Since joining the EU on the 1st of May 2004, Malta has undergone a transformative journey, transitioning into a modern European country while preserving its rich history and culture," said Minister Borg, who further stated that the decision to join the EU symbolised Malta's aspirations for broader cooperation, stability, and prosperity beyond its borders.

Minister Borg outlined how Malta's EU membership has not only propelled the country's economic development but has also strengthened its social fabric and enhanced its global standing. "Malta has experienced robust economic growth and prosperity, attributed to access to the Single Market and strategic utilisation of EU Funds for infrastructure and social development," Borg said.

Reference was also made to other initiatives such as the Erasmus+ Programme, where Minister Borg stressed how this has facilitated cultural exchange and learning, enriching Malta's national fabric and fostering cross-border cooperation, empowering Maltese citizens with mobility and educational opportunities.

Minister Borg also noted that Malta has consistently proven its worth, mentioning involvement in major decisions and the success fostered throughout the years, not least when Malta was at the helm of the Presidency of the Council of the EU back in 2017. Other subjects discussed during the conference included challenges such as migration, sovereignty debates, and climate goals. Dr Borg stressed that these challenges require European solutions and emphasised on the importance of unity and solidarity among member states.

 

Finally, Minister Borg also expressed Malta's determination to continue participating actively in shaping the future of the European Union, emphasising the importance of dialogue, peace, and prosperity for all citizens, key elements that Malta is also pushing forward in its current dual role with the chairmanship of the OSCE and membership in the United Nations Security Council.