Parliamentary Secretary for the EU Presidency 2017 and EU Funds Ian Borg met President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz and other Members of the European Parliament during a visit to Strasbourg this week.

During the meeting with President Schulz, Borg discussed Malta’s ongoing preparations ahead of the forthcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2017. He stated that Malta was doing its utmost to be as well prepared as possible, despite the fact that there is a significant element of work. Parliamentary Secretary Borg also gave an update on the progress of Malta’s National Programme which is now also in its final stages.

Ian Borg also highlighted the importance for Malta to keep as close a contact as possible with the European Parliament and its members so as to reach agreements on as many issues and files as possible. In this regard, prioritising legislative work, which improves citizens’ lives and which can provide answers to the many questions they have on the European Union, is seen as key to the success of the Maltese Presidency, a Department of Information statement said.