The strength of common values should lead us to more cooperation between us, and to more opportunities for the benefit of our citizens. This is at a time where we are at a crossroads in a global scenario that has changed significantly, since the last CELAC Summit that took place eight years ago, which is bringing with it challenges that have affected all countries. The key to more robust and resilient societies and economies is the balance between sustainability, economic resilience and competitiveness.
This was the message by the Prime Minister Robert Abela in his interventions at the Summit that brought together 27 Leaders of the countries of the European Union with Heads of Government or Representatives of 33 states of Latin America and the Caribbean, called as CELAC in Brussels. During this Summit, the Prime Minister reiterated that the strength of the ties between the countries, both in bilateral and inter-regional relations, and the partnerships in areas of common interest should lead to more opportunities for the mutual benefit of the EU countries and these states.
With open trade, Prime Minister Robert Abela said that it presents strong potential to strengthen commercial relations and create new jobs, with Malta also supporting the work of the European Union to strengthen these relations. In the background of these discussions, the Prime Minister nevertheless claimed that growth and economic recovery must ensure that they do not leave unwanted effects on the environment by contributing to climate change, and that Malta as island and other islands like it has specific realities that must be safeguarded.
The consequences of climate change were also on Malta’s agenda in the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council. As sustainability is crucial for the green and digital transition, and this renewed partnership ensures a greater effort in favor of these transitions. This is also in line with the priorities of the Maltese Government that while the economic success we have achieved in recent years was and is still the foundation of positive change in every area of life, we are investing in a brighter Malta with investment in the environment of our country, with the quality of life at the center of our work.
The Prime Minister concluded that this Summit was one of importance and with greater significance in the background of the geo-political context and it is showing how a strong relationship between the countries not only leads to more stability and peace but it also addresses global challenges such as climate change and environmental protection as well as safeguarding the fundamental rights of citizens. Therefore, this is a critical moment for this partnership to be renewed and strengthened to address these challenges.
Photos: OPM 
