In a high-level discussion with Gesine Meissner, European Coordinator, and representatives of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR) on the development of the European Maritime Space, Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri spoke of the need for more investment and European support in Gozo’s maritime connectivity.
During the discussion, the Minister emphasised the importance of maritime connectivity for islands and peripheral regions, stressing that, for both Gozo and Malta, maritime transport is an essential lifeline on which economic activity, social cohesion and territorial development depend.
Minister Clint Camilleri stated that “together with representatives from various regions across Europe, we discussed transport and maritime affairs with the European Coordinator, outlining the needs and requirements of regions on the periphery of Europe. We spoke about the importance of the Mġarr Port in Gozo and the investment that needs to be made in it, as well as the assistance that the European Union will be providing to these smaller regions so that they can modernise not only their fleets but also make their ports more accessible. Ultimately, these ports remain the main link between these regions and islands and the rest of the European continent. We will continue working, including at European level, to ensure that the Gozitan and Maltese voice continues to be heard where necessary.”
He emphasised the need for the European Maritime Space to give greater attention to island connectivity through resilient, affordable and year-round maritime connections. He also spoke about the importance of ensuring that Public Service Obligation routes and small regional ports receive appropriate recognition and support.
The Minister also said that the green transition should strengthen, rather than weaken, maritime connectivity. He therefore called for targeted support for the decarbonisation and modernisation of small-scale maritime transport in islands and their ports.
As part of the delegation of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR), Minister Camilleri also attended a meeting with Member of the European Parliament Sérgio Gonçalves, Rapporteur on the report concerning the European Union Strategy for Ports, at the initiative of the European Parliament. During the meeting, the work being carried out in the European Parliament and the next steps regarding the European Ports Strategy were discussed.
He called for a strategy that recognises the specific challenges faced by islands, ensures fair access to funding, strikes a balance between competitiveness and territorial cohesion, and provides adequate support for decarbonisation.
Minister Clint Camilleri concluded by emphasising the need for European policies to ensure that no island or peripheral region is left behind in the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient maritime sector.