Today, the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola was in Malta to celebrate the country's 20 years of EU Membership. Addressing an event organised by the European Parliament Liaison Office, President Metsola encouraged people to make their voice heard on the future of Europe and the future of Malta within it.
Good morning everyone,
As President of the European Parliament, I am invited to speak at all sorts of events. But let me tell you, few give me as much joy and satisfaction as being here in Ta’ Qali on a beautiful public holiday, seeing so many people - so many children - enjoying what 20 years of Malta in the European Union has brought to our country.
A special thanks to all the people behind the success of this European Fair.
Reflecting on Malta’s journey within the European Union always brings back fond memories. My political career started with what we then called the “yes” campaign. I remember as a student, having to go round speaking to so many people - trying to convince so many people - of what membership in the European Union would mean for Malta. And what it would mean for Europe.
Two decades later, we can say that it has meant a lot.
Europe’s crucial role in attracting nationals of so many other Member States to Malta has helped put Malta and Gozo on the European and global map. It is thanks to the access to the EU’s labour market that Malta’s economic growth has leapt forward through the years. It is thanks to European investment that Valletta, as a European Capital of Culture, continues to attract cultural talent from all across the Union. And it is thanks to ERASMUS,that educational programme that is practically synonymous with Europeans of my generation, that students and young people can enjoy so many of Europe's benefits in Malta and overseas. We have come a long way.
To the extent, that I have practically lost count of the hundreds of heart-warming stories I hear from so many of you across Europe having made Malta and Gozo your home. Of your children coming home with Maltese words added to their vocabulary, of your tangible contributions to Maltese life, business, society and culture. That is why regardless of which Member State you come from, I want you to know that we are grateful to have you.
Malta is Europe and you have every right to call Malta your home.
That means that you also have a right to make your voice heard on the future of Europe and the future of Malta within it. I am proud of everything the European Parliament has done over the past five years to make citizens’ lives a little bit safer, a little bit more equal and a little bit more prosperous. But the European Union is not perfect and more work needs to be done.
In Malta and Gozo, we will head to the polls on Saturday the 8th of June to elect the 6 Members of the European Parliament that will represent the interests of the people on our islands. As EU citizens, I want to emphasise that you too have a right to vote. Maltese MEPs can and do represent you. And if you have any questions about any of this, I encourage you to reach out to the authorities who will be able to guide you further. Because come the 9th of June, 6 Members of the European Parliament will be elected no matter what. Whether they believe in what you believe in, whether their views account for yours, all depends on you.
Thank you.