Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi emphasised the importance of dialogue between Mediterranean countries which form part of the European Union, so that common challenges are addressed jointly.
He spoke during a meeting between MED7 ministers, an alliance between 7 countries all of which form part of the European Union.
During this meeting, the Southern European countries discussed various matters, amongst which there were challenges related to our sea and Mediterranean coastal waters, freedom of movement in relation to Covid-19, and the importance of social rights together with the green economy and digital transition especially in light of the upcoming plans for the recovery and resilience of member states.
Regarding the latter, Parliamentary Secretary Zrinzo Azzopardi stated that the transition is inevitable and needs to be encouraged by forward-looking governments aiming towards a sustainable and clean environment, with a better distribution of wealth.
He reiterated this message in the Strategic Foresight Network of the European Union, whereby he is working with his European colleagues to prepare the country to address upcoming challenges and opportunities.
In Athens, Mediterranean ministers discussed migration and how this new pact regarding migration and asylum shall create a balance between shared responsibility and solidarity, particularly in the relocation of migrants.
The importance of cooperation with third countries of origin or transit was emphasised to reduce the influx of migrants and the loss of human life at sea. "Migration is not an issue exclusively related to one country or another, but it is affecting the whole of the European Union.", explained the parliamentary secretary. "Thus, we need to find a comprehensible solution so that together we can join forces".
This has been reiterated in the joint press release issued by MED7, which has called for a holistic solution that addresses the problem of migration at its roots.
The European ministers emphasised the need for stability in the East of the Mediterranean, whereby they emphasised the importance of cooperation with neighbouring countries, making special reference to Turkey.
The ministers have also stated their commitment to solving the Libyan challenges during a discussion on the stability and prosperity of Northern Africa.
In his concluding remarks, Parliamentary Secretary Zrinzo Azzopardi noted with satisfaction the spirit of collaboration together with the joint commitment towards the Mediterranean so that it is given due attention in the European Union.