Malta has always been at the crossroads of civilisations. Throughout the centuries, the Maltese islands have been the intersection between the Christian Fortress of Europe and the Muslim spheres of influence.

In the past, Phoenician and Carthaginian traders used this archipelago as a stepping stone towards Europe. Conversely, the Knights Hospitaller, as defenders of the faith, used it as a base and fortress to shelter Europe from the threat of other influences. Malta once again gained strategic importance under the British, to whom the islands occupied a key position in the Mediterranean and was hence a vital location for the Empire of the Crown. The above illustrates Malta’s unique position as a junction between civilisations, not only for strategic and trading purposes but also in times of confrontation. This, for instance, is illustrated in Malta’s role during the Great Siege – when the heroic Knights, with the help of our Maltese forefathers, prevented the Ottomans from further spreading throughout Europe.

But times have changed and with them the way we do politics. We have moved from the politics of confrontation to those of dialogue and discussion, trying to leverage our commonalities rather than focusing on the differences. Even against the backdrop of this new reality, the role of the Maltese islands is still just as relevant as it has been throughout history. Malta continues to be an important link between two continents and their respective civilisations. As such, it can facilitate dialogue and mutual understanding, creating a path towards peace and stability.

The European Union greatly contributes towards Malta’s profile in the international arena. Since becoming a fully-fledged member of the European Union, the standing and the visibility of the Maltese islands in the global political sphere has increased significantly. This has greatly enhanced Malta’s ability to champion the European project and its own European identity. At the same time, however, it puts Malta in a powerful position that allows it to echo the voice of many people living on the southern end of the Mediterranean Sea – people who share similar concerns and sentiments to our own and who strive for peace and stability. Supporting these aspirations will not only benefit those living in crisis areas. It will also prove beneficial to us, as our own stability back home is strongly impacted by the environment on the southern end of the Mediterranean. Consequently, stimulating a rapprochement between the two continents will enable closer cooperation. This is not only important when it comes to working towards common goals. It will also prove vital when it comes to tackling common problems, such as illegal immigration. Hence, building bridges of solidarity between Europe and the Arabic world will eventually lead to a win-win situation.

The Arab spring that raised a storm in northern Africa and indeed the entire world last year may be an important element in this rapprochement. It bears witness to the fact that citizens across the region are determined to make great leaps towards more democracy, peace and stability. The onus lies on us to ensure that this process does not die a natural death and to give our neighbours the support they need in order to build the future they are aspiring towards. The rehabilitation process may be a long and painful one, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. This is a crucial point in time, at which we can actively consolidate mutual understanding and solidarity in order to enable these countries to overcome current uncertainties and to integrate them into the political sphere.

With all these developments taking place beyond the borders of the European Union, it is important not to forget that these challenges are not only found in foreign regions. Cases like the ongoing conflict in Cyprus prove that confrontations between nations and civilisations are phenomena that also exist closer to home and that are certainly not solved overnight.

We are living in interesting times, where great changes take place on a daily basis. Whilst this may feel daunting at times, it is important to remember that many of these developments eventually lead to a brighter future. It is hence vital to adapt to these changes and leverage them in order to allow for the best possible outcomes. Most importantly, however, we must not allow our differences to create barriers that stand in the way of a better future. It is only through cooperation and solidarity that we can use our collective strength for the benefit of all.

David Casa is a Nationalist MEP