Barely three years have passed since an overwhelming majority of the Maltese electorate decided in favour of EU membership. Since then Malta has given a very positive contribution at international level and, not only are our coffers €855 million richer, but we also now have a say in all those decisions that affect the way we live, immaterial of our size or our geographical position. Our voice is heard and respected. In the 2009 MEP elections, Malta will get its sixth seat in the European Parliament. It is estimated that with that extra seat Malta will be present in no less than 12 committees out of 20. That extra seat means a lot in the present EU set up.

In a few days Malta will join the eurozone; this will boost our financial and economic credibility and will be a magnet for foreign investors who will now be keener to invest their money here. Jobs, sustainable jobs, shall be created for the benefit of all people in Malta and Gozo, especially the younger generation. Malta will also join Schengen, which together with the euro is hailed as one of the greatest achievements of European integration. Becoming part of Schengen will enable us to travel to other Schengen countries without a passport making it easier for people to move around thus enhancing tourism. Membership was the best choice made by the Maltese and Gozitans since gaining Independence in 1964. Young people, who three years ago were at the forefront of the “Yes-for-Europe” campaign, are enjoying the fruits of membership today. Hundreds of Maltese and Gozitan students and workers are taking part in exchange programmes to either further their studies or work experience. EU membership has definitely enhanced Malta’s green credentials; the closure of the Maghtab and Qortin landfills are a case in point. Undoubtedly, Malta is growing stronger in Europe as much as Malta is growing stronger beyond the EU, be it the Mediterranean region, the Council of Europe and the Commonwealth.

A couple of days ago, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean convened in Malta and set its base in Palazzo Spinola. Malta is now at the forefront in this all-important region and we look forward to a Mediterranean Union that will bring together the countries in the region. Malta’s credentials, coupled with it membership in the European Union, will enable it to have a major role in this region.

Recently, Malta submitted its candidacy for the post of Secretary General of the Commonwealth group of countries. It was a tough contest and, although Malta through its candidate Minister Michael Frendo had all the right credentials, she did not make it. Yet our candidacy put Malta in a very prominent position on the map. We have thus hugely benefited from such a contest, as it put Malta in the limelight and this can only be to our benefit. I was therefore disgusted when I read that Leader of the Opposition Alfred Sant questioned the basis of Malta’s candidacy for the Commonwealth secretary-general post. His biased comments, which attempted to ridicule the Maltese candidacy, was shallow to say the least and contrasted with the responsible approach taken by the man in charge of international affairs in his party, Leo Brincat. Ironically, outgoing Commonwealth secretary general Don McKinnon stated that Malta’s candidacy had increased the country’s profile very positively. Dr Sant once again begged to differ. It is unfortunate that in even on matters of national interest some people, the Opposition Leader included, can’t help being politically biased. The people of Malta and Gozo condemn such irresponsible behaviour.

Malta’s strong presence beyond our shores means a better standard of living for all Maltese and Gozitans alike. We are growing stronger in Europe and beyond and will continue to do so unless we are foolish enough to let useless political piques dampen Malta’s imagine to the detriment of us all. I hope this will not happen.