Gozo Minister calls for stronger territorial cooperation in Mediterranean Pact
Clint Camilleri says regions and local authorities must have a central role in ensuring the pact delivers results for islands such as Gozo
Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri has called for the Mediterranean Pact to strengthen territorial cooperation to better address the needs of islands with unique characteristics such as Gozo.
Speaking at the MedCat Days conference in Barcelona, Camilleri stressed the importance of regions and local authorities in implementing the objectives of the Mediterranean pact, saying they play a key role in turning the strategic vision into concrete action that benefits citizens and Mediterranean communities.
Camilleri explained that "the Mediterranean basin, together with its many regions, shares one common objective: to ensure the Mediterranean remains strong and that better solutions are found for every region, enabling them to move forward not only at their own pace but in a coordinated manner, without unnecessary duplication.”
“Ultimately, the aim is for all Mediterranean regions, both European and North African, to progress together for the benefit of the entire region."
Camilleri added that implementation of the Pact should build on existing cooperation frameworks to avoid duplication and maximise its impact, particularly for smaller administrations. He said the Pact requires a participatory approach involving civil society, local communities, and regional and local authorities.
He said the Ministry for Gozo welcomes the Pact as a timely initiative to strengthen cooperation between the European Union and its Mediterranean partners, based on shared responsibility, dialogue and mutual benefit.
He noted that, at a time of geopolitical challenges, climate change, migration pressures and economic uncertainty, the Pact provides an important framework for strengthening resilience and prosperity across the region.
“Among the opportunities it offers are sustainable investment, new opportunities for young people and businesses, the green and digital transitions, and greater cooperation in the fields of water, energy and security,” Camilleri said.
The minister said regional and local authorities have a crucial role in promoting territorial cooperation, innovation and initiatives that respond to the needs of communities, especially in territories with double insularity, such as Gozo, where local experiences can contribute to solutions that benefit the entire Mediterranean.
On cooperation with Mediterranean partners, the minister said there should be a flexible approach that respects the realities of each country and reflects the priorities of countries in the southern Mediterranean.