Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri has announced the launch of the review process of the Gozo Regional Development Strategy, three years after its publication. The aim is to assess the progress made and identify the priorities that should continue to guide the development of the island in the coming years. This review will serve as an opportunity to assess where Gozo has come, what has worked, what can be strengthened and where a new direction is needed so that the strategy continues to respond to the realities and aspirations of the Gozitan community.
Minister Clint Camilleri stated that the Strategy must remain a living document capable of adapting to the realities and opportunities that time brings. He said that, “this review is being carried out to look ahead, but also to recognise what we have already achieved. Gozo today has a clear direction and a long-term vision, and what we need to do now is to continue to build on this progress and ensure that our priorities continue to reflect the real needs of Gozitans.”
Minister Camilleri also explained that the development of Gozo cannot be measured solely in terms of economic growth, but should also look at the quality of life, the creation of quality jobs, better connectivity, a more protected environment and a more diversified and resilient economy. He recalled that the Gozo Regional Development Strategy 2023–2033 has already established a vision for development that combines economic progress with sustainability, resilience and quality of life. This vision continues to be integrated with the perspective of Gozo within the Malta 2050 Vision.
For his part, the Chief Executive of the Gozo Regional Development Authority, Juergen Attard, explained that, three years after the publication of the Strategy, the time has come to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the progress made and the challenges that remain. This exercise will evaluate not only the extent to which the Strategy has been implemented, but also how the economic, social, environmental and political realities have changed over the past three years. He stressed that the process should be evidence-based, by identifying areas where progress has been made, those where more work is needed, as well as where adjustments may be necessary for the remainder of the Strategy period. He added that the Strategy should remain a living and relevant document, evolving with the realities of Gozo and continuing to guide the development of the island in the years to come.
Minister Camilleri stated that Gozo must develop in a way that respects the unique character of the island, its communities, landscape and environment, while creating new opportunities for young people, families and businesses. Among the priorities that will remain on the agenda are the strengthening of infrastructure and connectivity, economic development and the creation of quality jobs, quality and sustainable tourism, innovation and digitalisation, agriculture and the rural economy, as well as the protection of the environment and the Gozitan identity.
The Ministry for Gozo also sees sustainability and climate resilience as an integral part of the future development of the island of Gozo. This includes investment in cleaner energy, sustainable mobility, water resources and infrastructure that is better able to cope with the challenges of climate change. This is also in line with the work being done to ensure that Gozo continues to move towards greater climate neutrality.
Minister Camilleri emphasised that the Strategy must remain linked to the daily realities of the people. Accordingly, the Ministry for Gozo will continue to work with the Gozo Regional Development Authority and the entities involved so that the review leads to a stronger strategy, with clear and measurable objectives, which will continue to give direction to the island over the coming years.
Minister Clint Camilleri concluded by saying that the future of Gozo must be one that we build together and that offers more opportunities, a better quality of life and an environment for generations to come.
Photo: MFG
