"Representation in Malta - EC Report Malta" Newsletter Issues

PayPal commits to amending terms & conditions to fully comply with EU consumer rules (21/12/2023)

PayPal has committed to enhancing the transparency and clarity of its terms and conditions for consumers following a dialogue with the European Commission and national consumer authorities. Coordinated by the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPC), PayPal has agreed to address concerns raised by authorities, making changes to its User Agreement. The commitments include clarifying clauses for consumers and businesses, eliminating provisions requiring consumers to verify legal compliance, and ensuring consumers understand their rights in disputes.

EU companies doubled R&D investment growth in 2022 (21/12/2023)

According to the 2023 edition of the EU Industrial Research & Development (R&D) Investment Scoreboard, Europe's industry significantly increased its investment in research and development in 2022. EU private R&D investment growth reached the highest rate since 2015, more than doubling compared to 2021, with a 13.6% increase in 2022. In contrast, China decreased its growth from over 25% to just over 16%, and US companies slowed down from 16% to 12.6%. In terms of sectoral distribution, the EU continues to lead in R&D investments by the automotive sector worldwide, with a 42.2% share. The EU also demonstrates strength in green high-value patenting (68%) and clean transport technologies (29%).

EU announces €175m financial support to reduce methane emissions at COP28 (21/12/2023)

Climate super-pollutants, including methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, and tropospheric ozone, contribute to over half of current global warming. Under the Global Methane Pledge initiated by the EU and the US, over 150 countries are committed to collectively reducing global anthropogenic methane emissions by at least 30% by 2030, compared to 2020 levels. This international effort supports the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

EU to invest over €65 million to scale up innovative clean tech projects (21/12/2023)

The European Commission has allocated over €65 million from the EU Innovation Fund to support 17 small-scale innovative clean tech projects across various sectors, including energy-intensive industries, energy storage, and renewable energy. These projects, spanning 24 countries, are expected to avoid over 1.8 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions in their first decade, contributing to Europe's decarbonization goals.

Commission welcomes political agreement on countering abusive lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP) (21/12/2023)

The European Commission welcomes the provisional political agreement reached between the European Parliament and the Council today on new EU rules to protect those targeted with strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP), such as journalists, rights defenders or civil society organisations. As proposed by the Commission in April 2022, the Directive creates a system of powerful procedural safeguards for cross-border SLAPP cases. The existence of these safeguards will equip courts to deal with abusive litigation but will also deter potential claimants from engaging in such practices.

Commission disburses REPowerEU pre-financing payments to Malta under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (21/12/2023)

The European Commission disbursed €13.9 million to Malta in pre-financing for the REPowerEU funds under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). This funding aims to initiate crucial investment and reform measures outlined in each REPowerEU chapter, contributing to the plan's objectives of saving energy, generating clean energy, and diversifying energy supplies.

No place for hate: a Europe united against hatred (21/12/2023)

The European Commission and the High Representative issued a joint Communication titled "No place for hate: a Europe united against hatred" in response to the alarming rise in hate speech and crime, particularly affecting Jewish and Muslim communities.

Standard Eurobarometer 100 – Autumn 2023 (21/12/2023)

The national report outlines the main findings of Wave 100 of the Standard Eurobarometer. Fieldwork was conducted from the 23rd October 2023 to 11th November 2023. A total of 504 interviews were conducted with respondents residing in Malta, aged 15 years and over.

Commission proposes new rules to improve animal welfare (21/12/2023)

The European Commission has proposed a significant reform of EU animal welfare rules during transport, marking the largest overhaul in 20 years. The proposal, aligned with the Farm to Fork Strategy of the European Green Deal, includes new rules on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats.

Commission welcomes the major progress achieved by Parliament and Council on the New Pact on Migration and Asylum (21/12/2023)

The political agreement reached today by the European Parliament and the Council on the Pact on Migration and Asylum constitutes a major breakthrough towards a common system for managing migration in the EU.

EU launches Humanitarian Air Bridge operation to bring aid to Gaza (31/10/2023)

Following the recent terrorist attack by Hamas against Israel and the ensuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the EU is increasing its emergency assistance to the Palestinian people. The EU has launched a Humanitarian Air Bridge operation to transport life-saving supplies to Gaza.

Commission sets out measures to tackle potential threats from civilian drones (31/10/2023)

The European Commission has adopted a comprehensive EU counter-drone policy to address threats posed by the unlawful and dangerous use of civilian drones. This policy aims to manage the increasing use of drones and their evolving capabilities, which pose security risks. The legitimate use of drones is essential for Europe's green and digital transitions, but unlawful drone use can lead to security risks and privacy violations.

The Commission proposes measures to reduce microplastic pollution from plastic pellets (31/10/2023)

The Commission has proposed measures to prevent microplastic pollution caused by the unintended release of plastic pellets, which currently amounts to 52 to 184 thousand tonnes each year due to mishandling in the supply chain.

State of the Energy Union 2023: EU responds effectively to crisis, looks to the future, and accelerates the green transition (31/10/2023)

The State of the Energy Union Report 2023 assesses the EU's response to the energy crisis, highlighting the need for a collective and effective response to address supply challenges and accelerate the clean energy transition. The report outlines key figures, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and decreased dependence on Russian fossil fuels. The report emphasises that the EU should continue to ensure affordable, reliable, and accessible energy for households while enhancing industrial and economic competitiveness.

Commission steps up actions to address critical shortages of medicines and strengthen security of supply in the EU (31/10/2023)

The European Commission has taken actions to prevent and mitigate critical medicine shortages in the EU, focusing on this winter and beyond. Recent shortages, such as antibiotics, have highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to make Europe's medicine supply chains more resilient. The goals are to prevent and mitigate shortages, particularly for critical medicines, ensuring their security of supply at all times.

Commission sets out immediate actions to support the European wind power industry (31/10/2023)

To achieve the EU's renewable energy target of at least 42.5% by 2030 (with an ambition for 45% renewables), substantial growth in wind power capacity is needed, increasing from 204 GW in 2022 to over 500 GW in 2030. The European Commission has unveiled the European Wind Power Action Plan, focusing on various aspects to ensure this growth, including accelerated deployment, improved auction design, access to finance, fair international competition, skills development, and industry engagement.

Commission welcomes G7 leaders' agreement on Guiding Principles and a Code of Conduct on Artificial Intelligence (31/10/2023)

The European Commission welcomes the G7 leaders' agreement on International Guiding Principles on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a voluntary Code of Conduct for AI developers as part of the Hiroshima AI process. These principles and the Code of Conduct aim to complement the legally binding rules being finalized under the EU AI Act. The Guiding Principles, adopted by the G7 countries and the EU, offer guidance for organizations involved in advanced AI systems, focusing on safety and trustworthiness.

New European Bauhaus: applications open for 2024 edition of NEB Prizes (31/10/2023)

The Commission has opened applications for the 2024 New European Bauhaus (NEB) Prizes, aiming to award 20 innovative projects and concepts that prioritize sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusiveness. This year, applications are also welcome from Ukraine, in addition to EU Member States and the Western Balkans. Special prizes will recognize projects contributing to Ukraine's recovery. The focus is on projects from regions facing socio-economic challenges in the digital and green transition.

Implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Plan in Malta: Achievements and Challenges (08/11/2023)

The European Commission Representation in Malta in collaboration with the Ministry for Economy, European Funds and Lands is hosting a high-level Annual Event to discuss how the Recovery and Resilience Plan is working in Malta with both the authorities and stakeholders. The event will focus on the energy transition towards renewables, skills and access to EU financing for small businesses.

Understanding of the benefits of EU membership through simulation (31/10/2023)

During the last week of October, Europe House welcomed students from St. Martin’s College Sixth Form and St Clare College Secondary School to participate in a series of role-play simulations and games, aimed at providing a better understanding of the benefits that citizens of Malta enjoy as an outcome of EU membership. The initiative was co-organised by the European Commission Representation and the European Parliament Liaison Office in Malta.

Europride 2023 (07/09/2023)

Europride 2023 in Malta was not only a great celebration of inclusion and diversity, but also a moment of reflection and political discussion. The Representation partcipated fully in the majority of the political activities organised in the context of this important event, together with the European Commissioner for Equality, Helana Dalli.

Festalingwi/ TraTra (24/09/2023)

September was the busiest month for the DGT Field Office with not one, but two, brand new initiatives being launched. The month kicked off with TraTra, a summer school under the Translating Europe Workshop banner introducing translation practice to sixth formers through talks, workshops and individual guided practice.

Union of equality: Commission proposes European Disability and Parking Card valid in all Member States (29/09/2023)

The European Commission delivered a legislative proposal that will facilitate access to the right to free movement for persons with disabilities, by making sure they can, on an equal basis, access special conditions, preferential treatment, and parking rights when visiting another Member State.

Citizens and organisations invited to express their views on Erasmus+ and shape the future of the programme (29/09/2023)

The Commission has launched a public consultation to collect the views of citizens and organisations on Erasmus+, the EU’s flagship programme for education, training, youth and sport. The public consultation will help the Commission gather information on the results of the novelties introduced in the current generation of the programme, such as European Universities, Centres of Vocational Excellence and Erasmus+ Teacher Academies.

COVID-19: Commission authorises second adapted vaccine for Member States' autumn vaccination campaigns (29/09/2023)

The Commission has authorised the Spikevax XBB.1.5-adapted COVID-19 vaccine, developed by Moderna. This is another important step in the fight against the disease. It is the third adaptation of this vaccine to respond to new COVID-19 variants. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) carried out a stringent evaluation of the vaccine under the accelerated assessment mechanism. Following this evaluation, the Commission authorised the adapted vaccine under an expedited procedure so that Member States can prepare in time for their autumn-winter vaccination campaigns.

Healthy seas: Commission leads common efforts to improve state of Baltic Sea (29/09/2023)

Commissioner Sinkevičius hosted the second edition of the 'Our Baltic' Conference to address pressing environmental challenges in the Baltic Sea. The high-level conference gathered ministers and high-level officials in charge of fisheries, agriculture, and environment from eight EU Baltic countries (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Sweden).

First report on the State of the Digital Decade calls for collective action to shape the digital transition (29/09/2023)

The first report on the State of the Digital Decade, provided a comprehensive overview of progress made toward achieving digital transformation, empowering a more digitally sovereign, resilient, and competitive EU. It assessed the EU's performance regarding Europe's 2030 objectives and targets across four main pillars: digital skills, digital infrastructure, digitalization of businesses (including the use of Artificial Intelligence), and digitalization of public services.

EU Mission ‘A Soil Deal for Europe': €90 million for 17 new projects to support healthy soils (29/09/2023)

The European Commission invested €90 million in 17 research projects that contributed to the EU Mission: ‘A Soil Deal for Europe.' These projects focused on restoring and protecting soil health to support sustainable food production, biodiversity preservation, climate resilience, and the European Green Deal objectives.

Summer 2023 Economic Forecast: Easing growth momentum amid declining inflation and robust labour market (29/09/2023)

The EU economy continues to grow, albeit with reduced momentum. The forecast revises growth in the EU economy down to 0.8% in 2023, from 1% projected in the Spring Forecast, and 1.4% in 2024, from 1.7%. It also revises growth in the euro area down to 0.8% in 2023 (from 1.1%) and 1.3% in 2024 (from 1.6%).

SOTEU in Malta (29/09/2023)

In the wake of the recent State of the European Union (SOTEU) speech by President von der Leyen, Head of the EC Representation Lorenzo Vella met Local Councillors, stakeholders and BELC (Building Europe with Local Councillors) members to discuss and dissect the potential impacts of the President’s address on our local and regional realities.

SOTEU SAVE THE DATE (13/09/2023)

Where does Europe stand in 2023? And what’s next? On 13 September, in the course of the State of the Union address, we’ll take stock of our achievements while looking at the EU’s future. Watch live on TVM2 at 09:00am #SOTEU

Erasmus+: 159 projects selected to modernise higher education worldwide (31/08/2023)

The Commission has selected 159 projects for funding under Erasmus+ Capacity Building for Higher Education, which supports the modernisation and quality of higher education in third countries worldwide. These projects all respond to the overall aim to support the international cooperation of higher education, improve education systems and strengthen growth and prosperity on a global scale.

Visit of the Head of Representation, Lorenzo Vella during a Skolasajf event with Hamrun Centre – 07.08.2023 (31/08/2023)

Lorenzo Vella visited a group of children from Hamrun SkolaSafj Centre at SEM. The children were treated to interactive games, quizes and an opportunity to learn basic facts about the EU and where EU funds are used. SkolaSajf activities are organised by EUROPE DIRECT Valletta and SEM in collaboration with the Foundation for Educational Services.

Commission proposes fishing opportunities for 2024 in the Baltic Sea (31/08/2023)

The European Commission has introduced its proposal for the 2024 fishing allocations in the Baltic Sea, in response to scientific assessments indicating critical conditions in several fisheries. The proposal encompasses total allowable catches (TACs) and quotas for three out of ten stocks managed in the Baltic Sea, while remaining quotas will be determined later.

Mergers: Commission opens in-depth investigation into the proposed acquisition of Figma by Adobe (31/08/2023)

The European Commission is launching a thorough investigation into Adobe's proposed acquisition of Figma under the EU Merger Regulation. The inquiry focuses on potential competition concerns in the global markets for interactive product design software and digital asset creation tools.

Hong Kong: Annual EU report illustrates further decline of fundamental freedoms (31/08/2023)

The European Commission and the High Representative have released their 25th annual report on political and economic developments in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

European Citizens' Initiative: Commission decides to register initiative on preservation and development of Ukrainian culture and heritage (31/08/2023)

The European Commission decided to register a European Citizens' Initiative (ECI) entitled ‘Preservation and development of Ukrainian culture, education, language, and traditions in EU states'. The organisers of the initiative urge the Commission to step up its actions in supporting the integration of Ukrainian refugees in the EU.

Macao: EU report highlights growing emphasis on national security that risks undermining fundamental freedoms (31/08/2023)

The European Commission and the High Representative have adopted their 23rd annual report to the European Parliament and the Council on political and economic developments in the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR). This report covers developments in 2022.

Commission adopts detailed reporting rules for the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism's transitional phase (31/08/2023)

The European Commission adopted the rules governing the implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) during its transitional phase, which starts on 1 October of this year and runs until the end of 2025.

Eurobarometer: Majority of Europeans consider that the green transition should go faster (02/08/2023)

The vast majority of Europeans (93%) view climate change as a significant global issue, with 58% advocating an accelerated shift to a green economy due to energy price fluctuations and supply concerns post-Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Economically, 73% agree climate change costs outweigh green transition expenses, and 75% believe it drives innovation. Regarding emissions, renewables, and energy efficiency, 88% support minimal greenhouse gases, offsetting the rest for EU climate-neutrality by 2050.

Commission acts to accelerate phasing out of animal testing in response to a European Citizens' Initiative (02/08/2023)

The Commission has responded to the 'Save Cruelty-free Cosmetics' European Citizens' Initiative (ECI), outlining an overview of the EU's animal testing policies and proposing additional measures to reduce such testing. The Commission acknowledges the ECI's importance and European citizens' strong commitment to animal welfare. It highlights the EU's leadership in phasing out animal testing, including the full ban on cosmetic testing since 2013.

Transitioning to sustainable energy in the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector: a path to climate neutrality (02/08/2023)

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has welcomed the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector's energy transition strategy. This was requested by the Spanish Presidency and adopted in July to address carbon emissions, promote sustainability, and achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

Courtesy visits by the new head of the EC Representation in Malta (02/08/2023)

The new Head of the European Commission Representation, Lorenzo Vella, held courtesy visits with H.E. President Dr. George Vella, the Hon. Prime Minister, Dr. Robert Abela and the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Dr. Bernard Grech.

European Green Deal: more sustainable use of plant and soil natural resources (02/08/2023)

The Commission's comprehensive package for sustainable resource use strengthens EU food systems and farming. It encompasses various measures aimed at promoting sustainability and resilience. A crucial aspect is the introduction of a soil monitoring law that sets a trajectory for healthy soils by 2050.

EU countries greenlight new rules to reduce energy use by 2030 (02/08/2023)

Member states collectively committed to reduce final energy consumption by at least 11.7% in 2030 compared to 2020 forecasts. This translates to EU limits of 763 and 993 million tonnes of oil equivalent for final and primary consumption, respectively.

Recovery fund: Council greenlights updated national plan for Malta (31/07/2023)

The European Commission positively assessed Malta's modified recovery and resilience plan, now worth €328 million in grants (increased from €316.4 million), covering 31 reforms and 16 investments. Due to reduced grants, two investments were removed, and two measures were scaled down, considering supply chain disruptions caused by Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the revised RRF grant allocation.

Wildfires: EU provides crucial assistance to the Mediterranean region (02/08/2023)

Effective wildfire prevention, preparedness, and response saved lives and the environment. The EU's coordinated approach aided overwhelmed countries through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The European Civil Protection Pool and rescEU firefighting reserve ensured a collective response. Monitoring and satellite services supported firefighting efforts.

‘EU Funds and Me’ SkolaSajf sessions for children by Europe Direct Valletta and Gozo (31/07/2023)

For the 11th consecutive year, Europe Direct Valletta is participating in the government-run summer school SkolaSajf, by delivering 35 sessions to 8–12-year-olds, reaching around 400 students in Malta and Gozo. The sessions in Gozo are being held with Europe Direct Gozo.

Lorenzo Vella visits Europe Direct Network Centres (02/08/2023)

Lorenzo Vella, Head of the EC Representation, has concluded his introductory visits to the EUROPE DIRECT Network centres in Malta and Gozo.  During these visits, he also had the pleasure of meeting both the local and Gozitan EU Information Providers and National Contact Points, fostering valuable connections and gaining insight into their exceptional work.

ESG Skills: Empowering Youths for a Brighter Tomorrow (03/07/2023)

During the panel discussion on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) skills, attendees experienced an informative and engaging session that focused on various aspects related to ESG and the skills required to navigate this field. The panel consisted of professionals with expertise in ESG, including representatives from companies, sustainability consultants, the EU Commission, and experts in corporate governance, who brought diverse perspectives and experiences to the discussion.

EU Cohesion Policy: Waste management capacity has improved in Malta thanks to EU funds (03/07/2023)

The European Commission has welcomed the inauguration of Malta's Multi-Material Recovery Facility, which aims to improve the country's waste management capacity and promote the circular economy.

Commissioner Schmit visits projects supporting children and young people in Malta (03/07/2023)

Commissioner Schmit was in Malta to discuss the country’s social policy achievements with government ministers, MPs and social partners and to visit ESF-funded social projects, which help children to thrive in their education, identify and support young people with mental health issues and develop social services to help children stay with their families.

Commissioner Kyriakides in Malta to focus on EU pharmaceutical policy (03/07/2023)

On Friday 16 June, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, was in Valletta to discuss key files related to the European Health Union, with a focus on proposals for the reform of the EU pharmaceutical legislation and on ensuring the availability of affordable essential medicine across the EU.

New proposals to support the use of cash and to propose a framework for a digital euro (03/07/2023)

The European Commission has proposed two measures to ensure continued access to and use of euro banknotes and coins, as well as to establish a framework for a potential digital form of the euro. The proposals aim to accommodate the increasing preference for digital payments while preserving the option to use cash.

New rules to make phones and tablets more durable, energy efficient and easier to repair, enabling sustainable choices by consumers (03/07/2023)

The European Commission has proposed new rules for energy labelling and eco-design of mobile phones, cordless phones, and tablets. These rules aim to help consumers make sustainable choices and promote a circular economy. The devices produced under these rules will save energy, reduce carbon emissions, and be more durable and repairable.

Launch of Energy Transition Partnership for EU fisheries and aquaculture (03/07/2023)

The European Commission has launched the Energy Transition Partnership for fisheries and aquaculture, aiming to achieve a climate-neutral sector by 2050. The Partnership serves as a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and coordinated efforts among stakeholders in the industry.

Consumer protection: major online travel agencies commit to refund within 14 days for cancelled flights (03/07/2023)

Three major European online travel agencies, Edreams ODIGEO, Etraveli Group, and Kiwi.com, have committed to better informing consumers about their rights in the event of flight cancellations by airlines and to transfer ticket refunds within seven days after receiving them from the airlines. This means that consumers should receive their refunds within a maximum of 14 days.

European Commission endorses Malta’s €328 million modified recovery and resilience plan, including a REPowerEU chapter (03/07/2023)

The European Commission has given a positive assessment of Malta's modified recovery and resilience plan, which has now been increased to €328 million in grants. The plan includes 31 reforms and 16 investments, with a strong focus on the green transition and support for climate objectives.

Quality of Europe's bathing waters remains high (03/07/2023)

The latest annual Bathing Water report reveals that the majority of bathing water sites in Europe met the EU's highest water quality standards in 2022. The report, compiled by the European Environment Agency (EEA) in collaboration with the Commission, identifies the cleanest bathing sites in Europe for the summer.

EU mobilises emergency equipment to assist Italian authorities (31/05/2023)

Following a new request for assistance from Italy, the EU has mobilised offers of pumping equipment from Austria, Bulgaria, Germany, France, Poland, Romania, Slovenia and Slovakia via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to help the Italian authorities deal with heavy floods.

Commission recommends actions to combat online piracy of sports and other live events (31/05/2023)

The Commission adopted a Recommendation on how to combat commercial scale online piracy of sports and other live events, such as concerts and theatre performances. It encourages Member States, national authorities, holders of rights and providers of intermediary services to take effective, balanced and appropriate measures to fight unauthorised retransmissions.

EU doubles rescEU firefighting fleet for summer 2023 (31/05/2023)

Following up on President von der Leyen's State of the Union speech in September last year, Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič announced the doubling of the rescEU aerial firefighting fleet for this year's wildfire season while speaking at the 10th anniversary of the EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre.

New tax transparency rules will help Member States shine a light on the crypto-asset sector (31/05/2023)

The Commission welcomes the political agreement (‘general approach') reached by EU Finance Ministers on new tax transparency rules for all service providers facilitating transactions in crypto-assets for customers resident in the EU.

Transform-ED - Games and AI in Education (08/05/2023)

The EC Representation marked Europe Day and the European Year of Skills with a bang by organising the first-ever edition of Transform-Ed. Between May 8 and 10, hundreds of educators, expert trainers, thought leaders and industry representatives from over 50 educational institutions across the EU and USA met in Valletta to discuss and learn about the challenges and opportunities presented by using artificial intelligence and games in education.

Spring 2023 Economic Forecast (31/05/2023)

The European economy continues to show resilience in a challenging global context. Lower energy prices, abating supply constraints and a strong labour market supported moderate growth in the first quarter of 2023, dispelling fears of a recession. This better-than-expected start to the year lifts the growth outlook for the EU economy to 1.0% in 2023 (0.8% in the Winter interim Forecast) and 1.7% in 2024 (1.6% in the winter).

Commission proposes new rules to protect and empower retail investors in the EU (31/05/2023)

The Commission has adopted a Retail Investment Package that places the consumers' interests at the centre of retail investing. The aim is to empower retail investors (i.e. “consumer” investors) to make investment decisions that are aligned with their needs and preferences, ensuring that they are treated fairly and duly protected. This will enhance retail investors' trust and confidence to safely invest in their future and take full advantage of the EU's Capital Markets Union.

Spring Package of the European Semester (31/05/2023)

The Commission’s Country Report on Malta recognises the progress Malta has made in implementing its recovery and resilience plan. It also identifies areas where challenges remain, such as Malta’s low share of renewable energy, high emissions from road transport, and risks from aggressive tax planning.

Europe Day 2023 (31/05/2023)

Europe Day 2023 was marked in Freedom Square Valletta with a half day of activities organised by Europe Direct Valletta and SEM. The event served to showcase the benefits and opportunities for EU citizens in Malta and Gozo, mainly through EU funds and through EU-related services.

Visits to EU funded sites (31/05/2023)

Europe Direct Valletta, in collaboration with SEM and Rota organized two visits to EU funded sites, one for secondary students and one cycling enthusiasts. On April 30, Europe Direct Valletta held the first of three cycling tours to EU funded sites.

NextGenerationEU: Malta submits request to modify recovery and resilience plan and add a REPowerEU chapter (28/04/2023)

Malta submitted a request to the Commission to modify its recovery and resilience plan, to which it also wants to add a REPowerEU chapter. Malta’s proposed modification of the plan foresees new transformative measures to deliver on the REPowerEU objectives.

Commissioner Dalli in Malta (28/04/2023)

European Commissioner for Equality Helena Dalli was in Malta to participate in the Conference to present the findings of: ‘Safety in Childhood: A Prevalence Study of Childhood Abuse Experiences in Malta’ organised by the Maltese Commission on Gender-Based Violence & Domestic Violence.

European Green Deal: new law agreed to cut aviation emissions by promoting sustainable aviation fuels (28/04/2023)

The Commission welcomes the political agreement on the ReFuelEU Aviation proposal, reached between the European Parliament and the Council. Once in place, the new rules will help decarbonise the aviation sector by requiring fuel suppliers to blend sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) with kerosene in increasing amounts from 2025. This measure on its own is projected to reduce aircraft CO2 emissions by around two-thirds by 2050 compared to a ‘no action' scenario, and provide climate and air quality benefits by reducing non-CO2 emissions.

Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders visits Malta (28/04/2023)

The European Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders, visited Malta where he met with Prime Minister Robert Abela to discuss reforms aimed at strengthening the rule of law, justice and governance in the country. Commissioner Reynders also had meetings with Hon. Jonathan Attard Minister for Justice, the Attorney General and the Foreign and European Affairs Parliamentary Committee.

Transform-ED - Games and AI in Education (28/04/2023)

The European Commission Representation in Malta is organising a training symposium, as part of the #EuropeanYearofSkills , that brings together educators with expert trainers, thought leaders and industry players both large and small to learn, share and network on the future of education in Europe. This event will be structured as a professional development program for educators, and is eligible for attendance via Erasmus+ Mobility funding for educators in accredited institutions.

Juvenes Translatores event (28/04/2023)

On April 4, Europe House welcomed the students who received a special mention for their translation in the Juvenes Translatores competition. Juvenes Translatores is an EU-wide translation contest organised by the Directorate General for Translation for students in their final year of sixth form, and this year’s contestants did particularly well, with eight students receiving a special mention.

Il-Malti għal Qalbi (28/04/2023)

Language Officer David Schembri took part in the conference as part of the L-Ilsien Malti għal Qalbi campaign under the patronage of President George Abela. David gave an overview of the Commission’s translation and linguistic activities.

Don Quixote comes to Malta (28/04/2023)

From somewhere in La Mancha, to Malta! To mark World Book Day, the Language Office organised two pop-up exhibitions of Don Quixote in 27 European languages, including all 24 EU languages. The collection, started by our colleagues in Vienna, is travelling all over Europe, and had its first Maltese stop at the Junior College Library in Msida.

Expanding the reach of the BELC network in Malta (28/04/2023)

On 24 April 2023, the EC Representation in Malta held the first ever event dedicated exclusively to raising awareness about the BELC network and its mission. Hosted in Europe House, the Maltese home of the European Parliament and the European Commission, it successfully brought together in Valletta local councillors from across the country.

Europe Day in Gozo (28/04/2023)

During the event various EU information providers will be present, to provide information about the European Union, and the remit of each organisation, including also the services offered.  These include the European Commission Representation in Malta, the European Parliament Liaison Office, Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta(SEM), EUROPE DIRECT Valletta, EU Careers, the EU Healthcare Entitlement Unit, the Ministry for Health, the EU Programmes Agency, the European Union Agency for Asylum, and the European Consumer Centre.

State aid: Commission updates guidance for measures to support the green transition (28/04/2023)

The European Commission has published updated State aid guiding templates to assist Member States in designing measures, which will be included in their national Recovery and Resilience Plans (‘RRPs'), in line with EU State aid rules. In particular, the updated technical documents will help Member States design measures that further contribute to the implementation of the European Green Deal, while helping to end the dependence on Russian fossil fuels and fast forward the green transition as set out in the REPowerEU Plan.

Standard Eurobarometer 98 - National Report (31/03/2023)

The national report outlines the main findings of the fieldwork conducted between the 12th of January and the 1st of February 2023. A total of 504 interviews were conducted with respondents residing in Malta aged 15 years and over.

Managing migration: new initiatives to strengthen European integrated border management and expedite returns (31/03/2023)

The Commission adopted a Communication which presents the strategic framework for European integrated border management (EIBM) for 5 years and a Recommendation to Member States on the mutual recognition of return decisions and expedite returns. In its extraordinary meeting on 9 February 2023, the European Council reiterated the importance of ensuring effective control of the EU's external land and sea borders as part of a comprehensive approach to migration.

Right to repair: Commission introduces new consumer rights for easy and attractive repairs (31/03/2023)

The European Commission adopted a new proposal on common rules promoting the repair of goods, which will result in savings for consumers and support the objectives of the European Green Deal by reducing waste, among others.

EU and international donors' pledge €7 billion in support of the people in Türkiye and Syria following the recent devastating earthquakes (31/03/2023)

A total of €7 billion were pledged by the international community at the ‘Together for the people of Türkiye and Syria' International Donors' Conference, co-hosted by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and by the Prime Minister of Sweden, Ulf Kristersson, for the Swedish Presidency of the Council.

European Green Deal: ambitious new law agreed to deploy sufficient alternative fuels infrastructure (31/03/2023)

The Commission welcomes the political agreement reached between the European Parliament and the Council to boost the number of publicly accessible electric recharging and hydrogen refuelling stations in particular across the European Union's main transport corridors and hubs.

Day of European Authors (27/03/2023)

To mark the first Day of European Authors on March 27, Malta Libraries and the EC Representation teamed up to launch the EU Authors Library at the Central Public Library in Floriana. The initial collection of 27 books from the 27 EU Member States will serve as the backbone of a collection that is set to expand over the years to provide a wider range of books from all over the EU.

Commission proposes more transparency and less red tape for companies to improve business environment in the EU (31/03/2023)

The European Commission adopted a proposal for a Directive making it easier for companies to expand the use of digital tools and processes in EU company law. The proposal aims to facilitate cross-border companies' operations and to increase business transparency and trust by making more information about companies publicly available at EU level.

NextGenerationEU: Commission disburses first payment of €52.3 million to Malta under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (31/03/2023)

The payment of €52.3 million in grants was made possible by Malta’s fulfilment of the 16 milestones and 3 targets in the first instalment.

Fiscal policy guidance for 2024: Promoting debt sustainability and sustainable and inclusive growth (31/03/2023)

The Commission provided guidance to Member States on the conduct and coordination of fiscal policy for next year. This guidance comes as discussions on the future economic governance framework are ongoing. Overall, fiscal policies in 2024 should ensure medium-term debt sustainability and promote sustainable and inclusive growth in all Member States.

Europe Direct Valletta hosts Network of Networks meeting (31/03/2023)

On March 22, SEM and Europe Direct Valletta brought together EU-related national contact points and information providers in Malta, to coordinate the preparations for Europe Day 2023 and the European Parliament Elections 2024.