Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, today addressed the High-Level Conference on the Future of Cohesion Policy held in Bucharest, Romania, organised by the Romanian Minister for Investments and European Projects, Dragoș Pîslaru, where he underscored the vital role of cohesion policy as a strategic driver of sustainable development, competitiveness, and social progress across the European Union.

Speaking alongside Ministers and the European Commission's Vice-President Raffaele Fitto, Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi reaffirmed Malta's long-standing view that cohesion policy must remain a universal and territorially sensitive instrument, particularly for smaller Member States facing permanent structural challenges.

"Cohesion policy has helped Malta strengthen skills, digitalisation, environmental priorities and public services. It has been central to our transition towards a more resilient and innovative economy," the Minister said. "But today, we must look ahead. This is a crucial moment for the future of cohesion."

The Minister expressed concern that, while the European Commission's intention to modernise cohesion is welcome, elements of the proposed Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) risk weakening the visibility, predictability and dedicated nature of cohesion funding.

"The proposed allocation system introduces uncertainty. For island Member States like Malta, vulnerabilities linked to higher connectivity costs, land pressures and external dependencies are amplified. These realities demand genuine place-based solutions, which cohesion policy is uniquely designed to deliver," he stated.

Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi emphasised that cohesion must not become merely a vehicle for delivering reforms but must continue to serve as a cornerstone of European integration, competitiveness and-above all-public trust. He called for future cohesion frameworks to:

• Maintain adequate and fair funding for all regions, regardless of development rate of the member state.
• Enhance flexibility without sacrificing predictability or regional influence.
• Ensure cohesion remains universal, territorially balanced and adequately resourced.
• Preserve multi-level governance and the involvement of regional and local authorities.

"Only by working across all levels of governance can we ensure cohesion continues to drive convergence, innovation and balanced growth throughout Europe. Malta remains fully committed to working with our partners to ensure a strong, effective and future-ready cohesion policy," the Minister concluded.

Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi also had the opportunity for discussions with the European Commission's Vice-President, Raffaele Fitto, who is responsible for cohesion policy. Their talks focused on the implementation of cohesion funds in Malta and the objectives that need to be achieved in the upcoming funding programme. Participating in this conference was also Roxana Mînzatu, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Social Rights, Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness, who recently visited Malta for formal meetings.