EU's Fitto in Malta to Drive Cohesion Policy Forward
Raffaele Fitto, the European Union's Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, has arrived in Malta to discuss the implementation of EU cohesion policy and engage directly with national authorities on key development priorities [1].
During his visit, Fitto met with Prime Minister Robert Abela and held talks with several government ministers, including Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi (Minister for EU Funds and Implementation of the Electoral Programme), Clint Camilleri (Minister for Gozo and Planning), and Miriam Dalli (Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness) [1].
The discussions focused on how cohesion policy is being implemented across Malta and Gozo, with particular attention to the future direction of EU support and the forthcoming EU Strategy for Islands [1].
"This visit to Malta highlights the importance of working together towards a more competitive and resilient Europe," Fitto said. "Strategic EU-funded projects in Malta and Gozo are making a concrete contribution to these objectives while strengthening cohesion across the European Union" [1].
Flagship Energy Project Takes Centre Stage
A centrepiece of Fitto's visit is his inspection of the second electricity interconnector between Malta and Sicily, described as the largest EU-funded cohesion policy investment in Malta to date [1]. The project will double existing electricity capacity between the islands, bringing substantial benefits to citizens and businesses [1].
"The second electricity interconnector between Malta and Sicily is a flagship project and the largest EU-funded cohesion policy investment in Malta to date," Fitto explained. "The project will be further supported through the mid-term review of cohesion policy, and it will strengthen energy security while supporting the uptake of renewables and increased electrification" [1].
Gozo's Water and Heritage Investments Highlighted
In Gozo, the Executive Vice-President is visiting key EU-supported infrastructure projects that demonstrate tangible returns on European investment [1]. These include the reverse osmosis plant at Ħondoq ir-Rummien, which has secured water self-sufficiency for the island, and the restored Citadel—a historical landmark that has been renovated with the support of EU cohesion policy [1].
The visit underscores Malta's role within the broader European cohesion strategy and the Union's commitment to supporting investment and sustainable development across member states in the years ahead [1].