The Competitiveness Council I attended this week dealt with several aspects, mainly due to the fact that it was the last meeting under the French Presidency and also due to the present economic and financial crisis spreading and affecting several EU member states and nations worldwide alike. The council is in fact tackling issues regarding the internal markets and industries like the plan for economic regeneration, a patent system for the European Union, as well as a legal structure that will better regulate and manage gambling and betting.

Taking into consideration the international scenario of economic difficulties, Malta is arguing that consumers and businesses alike need to regain confidence in order to create stability at a time that is characterised by a slower economic rhythm. That is why Malta is joining the other fellow member states in order to set a plan that will revive and regenerate the economy.

There’s also need for structural reforms, specially designed according to the necessities of every member state. The member states are facing different situations according to their particular reality, however an appropriately coordinated plan and common strategy between member states will better the economic rhythm, that will eventually lead to a better situation than today’s. Such a plan will also undoubtedly generate more employment.

Innovation and ideas are the motor behind enterprise, through which the economy develops. The one coming up with the idea needs to have a legal framework that gives rest of mind. For this reason, a creator or innovator needs to make use of patents that will protect the hard work. In this line, the European Union is working on a system of European patents that will facilitate the protection of ideas, as well as offer a remedy in case of conflict.

The French Presidency also presented an updated report regarding policies and rules that apply to member states in connection with the gambling and gaming industry. In Malta this industry provides employment for about 5,000 families through the over 270 operators in the sector. For this reason, it is extremely important that this sector is regulated in an effective way that ensures responsible gaming and protects the young from harm, however at the same time, there must be a sound dialogue between the regulator and the operator to ensure that the provisions in the Treaty are adhered to and that there aren’t any violations of the internal market.

After every EU Council of Ministers meeting I realise how true it is that politics is the art of compromise. Every nation will try to defend its own interests, while the Commission will try to guide the council forward. In this light it is only fair to show my appreciation for the hard working colleagues in our Permanent Representation in Brussels, and in the particular ministries, to protect our national interest.

Dr Jason Azzopardi is parliamentary secretary in the Finance, Economy and Investment Ministry

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