MP Omar Farrugia has taken part in the meeting of the Committee for Improving Quality of Life, Exchanges Between Civil Societies, and Culture of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean held on February 3, 2023, in Rabat, Morocco. The meeting held a first exchange of views on the draft recommendations. The topic of this meeting focused on a greener future for all.
In a brief intervention, MP Farrugia spoke about sustainability and the ambitious green targets that Malta, as a small island, has embarked upon to tackle climate change. He referred to the change in energy policy that the Maltese Government has adopted since 2013. Since then, Malta has experienced a reduction in carbon emissions at a much faster pace than the European Union. This shift from heavy fuel oil to natural gas also brought an improvement in the quality of life on our islands.
MP Farrugia mentioned that literacy was chosen as one of Malta’s priorities during its current presidency seat in the United Nations Security Council. Literacy is an essential tool in our societies, as it gives us the capacity to communicate effectively and understand the world around us. He stressed the importance of this tool in the Euro-Med region and said that if we do not understand each other’s cultures and customs, it will be much more difficult to develop a fruitful relationship. Education is the key for any country or region to develop and improve in every aspect, be it cultural, social, or economic. He referred to the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies in Malta as an example of how investment in education programmes within our region is essential and beneficial.
MP Farrugia concluded his intervention by stressing that tangible improvements in the day-to-day quality of life need to be delivered now and be felt by all. Even though the world is facing challenges, we must be resolute and convinced. He added that in the face of these challenges, we will neither shy away nor slow down, as this is our world and sustainability is our future.
Source: Office of the Prime Minister