"Representation in Malta - EC Report Malta" Newsletter Issues

The Economic & Monetary Union: how has Malta benefitted and what does the future hold? (26/09/2018)

On Friday 14 September the European Commission Representation in Valletta, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Malta, hosted the conference "The Economic & Monetary Union: how has Malta benefitted and what does the future hold?", a commemoration of Malta's 10 year anniversary since the adoption of the euro, as well as an opportunity to applaud the economic success over the past decade.

Malta celebrates the European Day of Languages (27/09/2018)

The Representation's Language Office celebrated the European Day of Languages with the second edition of the Maltese language Spelling Bee Żanżan Kelma and the customary Language Fair at Pjazza Sant' Anna, Tas-Sliema.

#TradutturiTagħna, a tribute to Maltese authors and translators (27/09/2018)

In the weeks leading up to the European Day of Languages on 26 September, we ran on our social media #TradutturiTagħna, a campaign dedicated to Maltese authors and translators. Twice a week, we shared fun facts about books translated to and from Maltese. You can find all our "literary couples" here below.

Cittadella among RegioStar Awards finalists (27/09/2018)

Putting Gozo on the European map! Cittadella has made it among the finalists of the prestigious RegioStars Awards. It is the first time that a project from Malta makes it this far! Votes are now open.

The State of the Union 2018: The Hour of European Sovereignty (27/09/2018)

On 12 September, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker delivered his 2018 State of the Union Address, before the Members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, presenting his priorities for the year ahead and outlining his vision for how the European Union can continue to build a 'More United, Stronger and More Democratic Union', which was the theme of his 2017 Address.

Increased opportunities for small-scale fishermen in the Mediterranean and Black Sea (27/09/2018)

Ministers from EU Member States and riparian third countries adopted an ambitious 10-year Regional Action Plan for sustainable small-scale fisheries in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. The plan sets out detailed measures to ensure a sustainable use of fish stocks, whilst restoring long-term economic and social prosperity for small-scale fishers and coastal communities.

Commission proposes to put an end to seasonal clock changes (27/09/2018)

The European Commission is proposing to end seasonal clock changes in Europe in 2019, giving Member States the freedom to decide once and for all whether they want to permanently apply summer- or wintertime.

Back to school: Schoolchildren to receive milk, fruits and vegetables at school thanks to EU programme (27/09/2018)

The EU school fruit, vegetables and milk scheme resumes with the school year in the participating EU countries. Aimed at promoting healthy eating habits among children, the EU school scheme includes the distribution of fruit, vegetables and milk products, as well as dedicated educational programmes to teach pupils about the importance of good nutrition and to explain how food is produced.

VAT: EU Member States still losing almost €150 billion in revenues according to new figures (27/09/2018)

EU countries lost almost €150 billion in Value-Added Tax (VAT) revenues in 2016, according to a new study published on 21 September by the European Commission. The so-called 'VAT Gap' shows the difference between the expected VAT revenue and the amount actually collected.

Traineeships with the European Commission - Apply by 31 August! (27/08/2018)

Do you have a university degree? A very good knowledge of two EU official languages, one of which is English, French or German? No prior experience in EU institutions? If you meet these conditions, you could be one of the next Blue Book Trainees to receive a five month paid traineeship with the European Commission! Applications are open until 31 August, so hurry up!

European Week of Sport in Malta (27/08/2018)

Malta, get ready to #BeActive (link is external)! To mark the European Week of Sport (link is external), BeActive - SportMalta (link is external) invites everyone on Friday 7 September to an evening packed with sports. You can have a go at the traditional game of bocci, unwind with a yoga session, learn the basics of Aikido, join fun dance workshops and more.

European Day of Languages 2018 (27/08/2018)

The European Commission Representation in Malta is once again busy organising the yearly European Day of Languages activities, through a collaboration between the Language Office and l-Għaqda tal-Malti (Università).

Young Filmmakers Competition (27/08/2018)

​Think you've got what it takes to sit in the director's chair? Then we want to hear from you. The EU is offering young filmmakers the chance to make their very own #EUandME short film. Five winners will each receive a grant of €7,500, as well as mentoring from a top European director, to help them to bring their idea to life.

European Solidarity Corps: Commission opens new call for project proposals (27/08/2018)

The European Commission is calling on interested parties to put forward ideas for projects under the European Solidarity Corps. A total of €44 million has been set aside from the EU budget for selected projects that will be open to all young people across Europe and beyond. This is the first of a series of calls that will allow at least 100,000 young people to take part in the Corps until the end of 2020.

Greece begins a new chapter following the conclusion of its stability support programme (27/08/2018)

Greece has successfully concluded a three year European Stability Mechanism (ESM) stability support programme with its place at the heart of the euro area and European Union secured. The successful conclusion of the programme is a testament to the efforts of the Greek people, the country's commitment to reform, and the solidarity of its European partners.

#VallettaUpClose - Joseph Ellul is our cultural champion (31/07/2018)

It was a tough choice selecting one of the three finalists who guessed right 12 out of 12 contest entries. So tough a choice that we had to draw the winner by chance...

Blue Book Traineeships now open (31/07/2018)

Do you have a university degree or equivalent? Do you have a very good knowledge of two EU official languages and no prior experience in the EU institutions? Then you could be one of the next Blue Book Trainees benefitting from a five month paid traineeships with the Commission! Applications are open until 31/08.

Summer time public consultation - Should it be abolished? (31/07/2018)

Do you think we should continue to move our clocks one hour forward in Summer, or it's time to abolish Summer time? Take part in this online consultation, #EUHaveYourSay!

Language Office activities in July (31/07/2018)

The summer months are generally slow, but the calm is apparent: the Language Office of the Representation is busy preparing the annual European Day of Languages activities and the Translating Europe conference.

Joint U.S.-EU Statement following President Juncker's visit to the White House (31/07/2018)

We met in Washington, D.C. to launch a new phase in the relationship between the United States and the European Union – a phase of close friendship, of strong trade relations in which both of us will win, of working better together for global security and prosperity, and of fighting jointly against terrorism.

New EU rules ensure better protection for 120 million holidaymakers this summer (31/07/2018)

As of Sunday 1 July, travellers booking package holidays will enjoy stronger consumer rights. Not only will traditional package holidays be covered, the new rules will also protect consumers who book other forms of combined travel, including self-customised packages, where the traveller chooses different elements from a single point of sale online or offline.

Brexit: European Commission publishes Communication on preparing for the UK's withdrawal from the EU (31/07/2018)

On 19 July, the European Commission adopted a Communication outlining the ongoing work on the preparation for all outcomes of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union.

Employment and Social Developments in Europe: 2018 review confirms positive trends but highlights challenges (31/07/2018)

On 13 July, the Commission published the 2018 edition of its yearly Employment and Social Developments in Europe review. This year's edition confirms the ongoing positive labour market trends as well as an improving social situation.

Juncker Plan exceeds original €315 billion investment target (31/07/2018)

The European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) has mobilised €335 billion in additional investment across the EU since July 2015. The Juncker Plan has made a clear impact on the EU economy and revolutionised the way innovation is financed in Europe.

Summer 2018 Interim Economic Forecast: Resilient growth amid increased uncertainty (31/07/2018)

Growth is set to remain strong in 2018 and 2019. However, after five consecutive quarters of vigorous expansion, the economic momentum moderated in the first half of 2018.

First Malta-Sicily transnational Citizens' Dialogue (31/07/2018)

A delegation of 67 among youths, local councils, students, academics and civil society representatives from Malta and Gozo took part in the first Sicily-Malta transnational Citizens Dialogue on 5 July 2018. This pilot project was organised by the European Commission through the Europe Direct Network to facilitate a European public opinion in view of the European Elections next year.

The New Deal For Consumers - Consumer Dialogue with Commissioner Vĕra Jourová (26/06/2018)

Find out what the European Commission is doing for consumers! If you missed it, here is an opportunity to watch again the Consumer Dialogue held in Valletta on 14 June with EU Commissioner Věra Jourová, Minister Owen Bonnici and Parliamentary Secretary Deo Debattista!

#VallettaUpClose: 3 finalists short-listed for the title of Cultural Champion (26/06/2018)

Three finalists have been short-listed in our cultural heritage Facebook contest, but only one will become our Cultural Champion...

Launch of the EU Datathon 2018 (26/06/2018)

The Publications Office of the European Union is organising the second edition of the EU Datathon competition that highlights the potential of linking EU and national data. The event started in May 2018, with the final phase taking place in Brussels on 2 October 2018.

2018 EESC Civil Society Prize (26/06/2018)

The aim of the Civil Society Prize, which is awarded annually, is to reward and encourage tangible initiatives and achievements by civil society organisations and/or individuals that have made a significant contribution to promoting European identity and integration. Theme of the 2018 edition is: "Identities, European Values and Cultural Heritage in Europe".

Commission contribution to the European Council: Economic and Monetary Union, migration, EU budget for the future (27/06/2018)

Ahead of the European Council of 28-29 June 2018, the European Commission presented its proposals on: migration, deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union and the future of the EU Budget.

Trade barriers: EU removes record number in response to surge in protectionism (27/06/2018)

The annual report on Trade and Investment Barriers, released on 26 June, shows that the European Commission has eliminated the highest number ever of trade barriers faced by EU companies doing business abroad. European exporters reported a major increase in protectionism in 2017.

The future of EU Budget: the Commission puts forward its detailed proposals (26/06/2018)

Migration, climate change, agriculture, foreign policy, defence, research, cooperation and more. Over the month of June, the Commission put forward its proposals for a post-2020 budget in a number of fields. Read all the proposals on our website.

European Innovation Scoreboard 2018: Europe must deepen its innovation edge (26/06/2018)

The Commission's 2018 European Innovation Scoreboard published on 22 June shows that the EU's innovation performance continues to improve, but further efforts are needed to ensure Europe's global competitiveness. Malta among the fastest growing innovators.

European Commission and four online marketplaces sign a Product Safety Pledge to remove dangerous products (26/06/2018)

On Monday 25 June, four major online marketplaces, Alibaba (for AliExpress), Amazon, eBay and Rakuten - France have signed a commitment for faster removal of dangerous products sold on their online marketplaces .

Leveraging EU Funds: A Development Bank Perspective - EU Funding events in Malta and Gozo (27/06/2018)

The Representation co-organised two half-day events on 31 May and 1 June titled “Leveraging EU Funds: A Development Bank Perspective”. A large and mixed audience representing both businesses and institutions gained insight into the financing landscape in Malta by way of the post-2020 Multi-Annual Financial Framework and the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) under the Juncker Plan, also in the context of the newly established Malta Development Bank.

Leveraging EU Funds: A Development Bank Perspective - Malta (29/05/2018)

Representatives from the Malta Chamber of Commerce, European Commission's DG ECFIN, the Malta Development Bank and the European Investment Advisory Hub will contribute to the discussion on 1 June in Valletta, together with Parliamentary Secretary Aaron Farrugia and our Head of Representation Elena Grech.

IMPORTANT! Do you want to keep on receiving this newsletter? Let us know by 8 June (29/05/2018)

Dear EC Report Subscriber, as you already know, on Friday 25 May the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) entered into force. This will set new ambitious standards for data storing and data processing to the benefits of the citizens and the wider economy.

Leveraging EU Funds: A Development Bank Perspective - Gozo (29/05/2018)

The business community, project promoters, start-ups and everyone else interested in EU funding and investment opportunities is welcome to attend this event in Gozo on 31 May. We'll be discussing how the setting up of the Malta Development Bank could play a key role in leveraging EU funds for Malta.

#EUandMe - Find out how our Union is empowering you (29/05/2018)

We all have things that we’re passionate about: from training to travelling, surfing the internet to saving the world. Living in the European Union provides endless opportunities to do what you love – wherever that may lead. EU legislation and initiatives can help unlock your potential and ignite your inspiration, giving you the tools to pursue your passion.

#VallettaUpClose Facebook Contest (29/05/2018)

How close up do you know Valletta? Enter our #VallettaUpClose Facebook contest and win prizes! 2018 is the European Year of Cultural Heritage, a celebration of Europe's diverse identity. Here in Malta, traces of our heritage are everywhere: our capital city, in particular, is packed with cultural gems from the past and the present: architecture, sculptures, statues, monuments, the list is endless... But how much are we aware of these treasures of ours?

Language Office activities (29/05/2018)

Besides regular linguistic duties and preparations for its flagship projects – the European Day of Languages in September and the yearly Translating Europe Workshop – the Language Office was busy promoting EU Careers.

EU Justice Scoreboard 2018: justice systems' key role in upholding the rule of law and EU values (29/05/2018)

On Monday 28 May, the European Commission published the 2018 EU Justice Scoreboard which gives a comparative overview of the independence, quality and efficiency of justice systems in the EU Member States.

Single-use plastics: New EU rules to reduce marine litter (29/05/2018)

With the amount of harmful plastic litter in oceans and seas growing ever greater, the European Commission is proposing new EU-wide rules to target the 10 single-use plastic products most often found on Europe's beaches and seas, as well as lost and abandoned fishing gear.

New Data Protection rules (GDPR) - Know your rights! (29/05/2018)

Find out how your personal data is protected, the rights that help you take back control of your data and what to do if things go wrong.

Capital Markets Union: Making it easier for smaller businesses to get financing through capital markets (29/05/2018)

On 24 May, the Commission proposed new rules to give small and medium enterprises (SMEs) better access to financing through public markets.

2019 EU Budget: Commission proposes a budget focused on continuity and delivery – for growth, solidarity, security (29/05/2018)

On 23 May, the Commission proposed the 2019 draft EU Budget of €166 billion in commitments, corresponding to a 3% increase over 2018, investing in a stronger and more resilient European economy and promoting solidarity and security on both sides of the EU's borders.

12 Questions for the Future of Europe: Commission Launches Online Citizens' Consultation (29/05/2018)

On Europe Day 9 May, the European Commission launched an online public consultation addressed to all Europeans, asking them what direction they want the European Union to take in the future.

European Semester 2018 Spring Package: Commission issues recommendations for Member States to achieve sustainable, inclusive and long-term growth (29/05/2018)

The European Commission presented on Wednesday 23 May the 2018 country-specific recommendations (CSRs), setting out its economic policy guidance for Member States for the next 12 to 18 months.

European Commission Recommendations for Malta, 2018 (29/05/2018)

The 2018 European Semester, the EU's annual cycle of economic policy guidance and surveillance, is nearing its completion with the publication of the Commission's Country-Specific Recommendations (CSRs) to Member States, including Malta. CSRs provide tailored guidance to individual Member States on how to boost jobs, growth and investment, while maintaining sound public finances.

Europe Day activities (29/05/2018)

Europe Day, held on 9 May every year, celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the anniversary of the historical 'Schuman declaration'. At a speech in Paris in 1950, Robert Schuman, the then French foreign minister, set out his idea for a new form of political cooperation in Europe, which would make war between Europe's nations unthinkable.

Ask your MEP-Gozo - with MEPs Marlene Mizzi and Francis Zammit Dimech (29/05/2018)

Employment opportunities in Gozo and how the EU can do more to promote these were the topic of a hot debate in the Ask Your MEP session with MEPs Marlene Mizzi and Francis Zammit Dimech at the Gozo College Secondary School in Victoria on 28th April.

EU budget: Regional Development and Cohesion Policy beyond 2020 (29/05/2018)

For the next long-term EU budget 2021-2027, the Commission proposes to modernise Cohesion Policy, the EU's main investment policy and one of its most concrete expressions of solidarity.

#VallettaUpClose Facebook Contest (26/04/2018)

How close up do you know Valletta? Enter our #VallettaUpClose Facebook contest, test your knowledge and win prizes!

Europe Day - 9 May (and beyond) (26/04/2018)

Europe Day is soon approaching! From family days to quiz nights, from University debates to Facebook contests, check out what will be happening in Malta and Gozo on and around 9 May.

Citizens' Dialogue in Gozo (26/04/2018)

On Wednesday 18 April, Commissioners Corina Crețu and Karmenu Vella hosted a Citizens' Dialogue on Gozo. 120 men and women of all ages gathered to ask questions about cohesion policy, Gozo’s double insularity and the disparities in the economic standards of islands.

Commissioner Vella's speech at the PolyTalk Conference 2018 (27/04/2018)

On Friday 27 April, EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella visited Malta. On the agenda, a MEUSAC Core Group meeting on circular economy and his participation in the PolyTalk Conference on marine litter and plastic pollution, where he delivered this speech.

Language Office activities in April (27/04/2018)

In the month of April, the Language Office of the European Commission Representation helped in hosting a number of activities related to Maltese language and literature, including a talk by award winning author Immanuel Mifsud on religious poetry and a meeting for Maltese language stakeholders.

Tackling online disinformation: Commission proposes an EU-wide Code of Practice (26/04/2018)

On Thursday 26 April, the Commission proposed measures to tackle disinformation online, including an EU-wide Code of Practice on Disinformation, support for an independent network of fact-checkers, and a series of actions to stimulate quality journalism and promote media literacy.

Vaccines save lives Vaccination: Commission calls for stronger EU cooperation against preventable diseases (26/04/2018)

On Thursday 26 April, the Commission issued a set of recommendations for how the EU can strengthen cooperation in the fight against diseases that can be prevented by vaccines. This follows President Juncker's call, in his 2017 State of the Union address, for action to increase vaccination coverage and to ensure that everyone in the EU has access to vaccines.

Artificial Intelligence for Europe Artificial intelligence: Commission outlines a European approach to boost investment and set ethical guidelines (26/04/2018)

On Wednesday 25 April, the European Commission presented a series of measures to put artificial intelligence (AI) at the service of Europeans and boost Europe's competitiveness in this field. The Commission is proposing a three-pronged approach to increase public and private investment in AI, prepare for socio-economic changes, and ensure an appropriate ethical and legal framework. This follows European leaders' call for a European approach on AI.

Whistleblower protection: Commission sets new, EU-wide rules (26/04/2018)

Recent scandals such as Dieselgate, Luxleaks, the Panama Papers or the ongoing Cambridge Analytica revelations show that whistleblowers can play an important role in uncovering unlawful activities that damage the public interest and the welfare of our citizens and society.

A New Deal for Consumers: Commission strengthens EU consumer rights and enforcement (26/04/2018)

On Wednesday 11 April, the European Commission proposed a New Deal for Consumers to ensure that all European consumers fully benefit from their rights under Union law.

New budgetary instruments for a stable euro area within the Union framework (26/04/2018)

On 6 December, the European Commission set out a Roadmap for deepening Europe's Economic and Monetary Union, which included a number of legislative and non-legislative proposals. Among others, the Commission introduced some ideas on how new budgetary instruments essential for a stable euro area could be developed within the EU public finances framework.

VentureEU: €2.1 billion to boost venture capital investment in Europe's innovative start-ups (26/04/2018)

The European Commission and the European Investment Fund (EIF) have launched a Pan-European Venture Capital Funds-of-Funds programme (VentureEU) to boost investment in innovative start-up and scale-up companies across Europe.

Extended opening hours at the European Documentation Centre (26/04/2018)

The European Documentation Centre in Malta (link is external) (EDC) will be extending its opening hours in preparation for the upcoming May/June exam period.

EU - Japan Economic Partnership Agreement: Opportunities for Maltese Enterprises (27/03/2018)

Following the agreement in principle reached in July 2017 and the finalisation of the negotiations in December 2017 between the EU and Japan on an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), on Monday 26 March the Malta-Japan Chamber of Commerce organised an information seminar at Europe House on this milestone in EU - Japan relations.

How can Malta engage in the EU’s External Investment Plan? (27/03/2018)

On 15 March, the European Commission Representation and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade co-organised a conference with a view to provide more information on the External Investment Plan and to exchange views with stakeholders on how Malta can engage further in this new initiative.

Citizens' Dialogue with Commissioner Oettinger (27/03/2018)

Have you missed our Citizens' Dialogue on 1st March? Watch again our public debate on the future of the EU Budget with Günther Oettinger, EU Commissioner for Budget & Human Resources.

Travel with your digital subscriptions: Joint statement by the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU (27/03/2018)

From 1 April 2018 onwards, Europeans will be able to access the online content that they have subscribed to at home, wherever they are in the EU. European Commission Vice-President Andrus Ansip, Commissioner Mariya Gabriel, Bulgarian Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications Ivaylo Moskovski and Members of the European Parliament Pavel Svoboda and Jean-Marie Cavada issued the following statement.

WiFi4EU: registration opens for EU financing of free wireless internet hotspots in public spaces (27/03/2018)

On 20 March, the European Commission launched the WiFi4EU web portal. As of now, municipalities all over Europe are invited to register their details ahead of the first call for projects in mid-May, for the chance to benefit from EU financing to build free public wireless internet hotspots.

Digital Taxation: Commission proposes new measures to ensure that all companies pay fair tax in the EU (27/03/2018)

On 21 March, the European Commission proposed new rules to ensure that digital business activities are taxed in a fair and growth-friendly way in the EU. The measures would make the EU a global leader in designing tax laws fit for the modern economy and the digital age.

Commission adopts proposals for a European Labour Authority and for access to social protection: delivering further on the European Pillar of Social Rights (27/03/2018)

On Tuesday 13 March, the European Commission took more concrete new initiatives to further deliver on the European Pillar of Social Rights. More specifically, the Commission presented its proposal for a European Labour Authority, as announced by President Juncker in his 2017 State of the Union address, as well as an initiative to ensure access to social protection for all workers and self-employed.

The European Commission publishes Malta's 2018 Country Report (28/03/2018)

On the 7 March the European Commission published its annual analysis of the economic and social situation in the Member States, including progress in implementing country-specific recommendations and an assessment of possible imbalances.

Citizens' Dialogue with Commissioner Günther Oettinger - 1 March 2018 (26/02/2018)

On Thursday 1 March 2018, the European Commission Representation in Malta will hold a Citizens’ Dialogue on the EU Budget (Multiannual Financial Framework) and the Future of Europe with the Commissioner for Budget and Human Resources Günther H. Oettinger.

Implementing the External Investment Plan and the European Fund for Sustainable Development: How Can Malta Engage? (26/02/2018)

While official development assistance remains essential for the poorest and fragile countries in their efforts to fight poverty and achieve sustainable development, other means of financing EU partner countries have gained much additional weight including investment, trade, domestic resource mobilisation and good governance.

National Report of the latest Standard Eurobarometer Survey for Malta (EB88) (26/02/2018)

The European Commission Representation in Malta is pleased to publish the National Report of the latest Standard Eurobarometer Survey (EB88).

L-esperjenzi tagħna fl-Ewropa: more European experiences from inspiring Maltese (26/02/2018)

Watch all the episodes from our video series "L-esperjenzi tagħna fl-Ewropa"!

St Aloysius College once again wins annual translation competition (26/02/2018)

Maltese St Aloysius College student Andre Mifsud is the Maltese winner of this year’s edition of Juvenes Translatores for English to Maltese translations.

Informal meeting of the 27 heads of state or government (26/02/2018)

EU leaders met in Brussels to discuss the long-term EU budget and the institutional issues. Syria, Brexit, and relations with Turkey were also on the agenda.

A Europe that delivers: Commission presents ideas for a more efficient European Union (26/02/2018)

Ahead of the Informal Leaders' meeting on 23 February 2018, the European Commission presented on 14 February a number of practical steps that could make the European Union's work more efficient, and improve the connection between the leaders of the EU institutions and the citizens of Europe.

EU long-term budget after 2020: European Commission sets out options – and their consequences (26/02/2018)

On 14 February, the European Commission set out various options – and their financial consequences – for a new and modern, long-term EU budget that delivers efficiently on its priorities after 2020.

Winter 2018 Interim Economic Forecast: A solid and lasting expansion (26/02/2018)

Growth rates for the euro area and the EU beat expectations last year as the transition from economic recovery to expansion continues. The euro area and EU economies are both estimated to have grown by 2.4% in 2017, the fastest pace in a decade.

New Europe Direct Information Centres (EDIC) announced (26/02/2018)

The Malta-EU Steering & Action Committee (MEUSAC), the University of Malta and the Gozo Business Chamber are the entities chosen to host Europe Direct Information Centres in Malta and Gozo for a period of three years, starting from 1 January 2018.

L-esperjenzi tagħna fl-Ewropa: Maltese share their inspiring 'European' experiences (23/01/2018)

Karl is a young farmer, Lisa an arts enthusiast, Yasmin a creative sound artist, Stephanie a self-taught artist, Matthew an entrepreneur and Hector a small fisherman. What do these people have in common? They are some of the protagonists who will be sharing whith us their experience of Europe, without filters!

Valletta 2018 European Capital of Culture: It's time to shine! (24/01/2018)

Last Saturday, 20 January, was a historic moment in Malta, as it marked the official opening of Valletta European Capital of Culture 2018. On the day, an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 people took part in the vibrant celebrations throughout the capital city.

#FutureOfCAP: Maltese stakeholders discuss the future of food and farming (23/01/2018)

On Tuesday 16 January, the EC Representation invited Maltese agricutural stakeholders to a presentation about the Communication on the Future of Food and Farming. Following the proposal unveiled last November by Commissioner Phil Hogan, this communication presents the new Common Agricultural Policy.

The Maltese element in the chirographic works of William Wolkowski (23/01/2018)

The Representation's Language Office and l-Akkademja tal-Malti co-organised a talk by Dr Mario Cassar on the Maltese element in the chirographic works of William Wolkowski on the 19th January 2011.

Consumers to benefit from cheaper, safer and more innovative electronic payments - possible charges on ATM cash withdrawals a commercial decision by banks (23/01/2018)

European consumers will be able to reap the full benefits of paying online for goods and services, thanks to new rules that will it make it cheaper, easier and safer to make electronic payments.

Plastic Waste: a European strategy to protect the planet, defend our citizens and empower our industries (23/01/2018)

The first-ever Europe-wide strategy on plastics, adopted on 16 January, is a part of the transition towards a more circular economy. It will protect the environment from plastic pollution whilst fostering growth and innovation, turning a challenge into a positive agenda for the Future of Europe.

Countering illegal hate speech online – Commission initiative shows continued improvement (23/01/2018)

The third evaluation of the Code of Conduct on countering illegal online hate speech carried out by NGOs and public bodies and released on 19 January shows that IT companies removed on average 70% of illegal hate speech notified to them.

New measures to boost key competences and digital skills, as well as the European dimension of education (23/01/2018)

To follow up on the Gothenburg Summit, on 19 January the European Commission adopted new initiatives to improve key competences and digital skills of European citizens, to promote common values and pupils' awareness of the functioning of the European Union.

Institutional priorities for 2018 and future of EU Budget (24/01/2018)

In the first meeting of 2018, the College of Commissioners discussed the institutional priorities for this year.

Banking Union: First Progress Report on the tackling of non-performing loans to support the risk-reduction agenda (24/01/2018)

The European Commission has welcomed the headway made in tackling non-performing loans (NPLs) in the EU as part of ongoing work at the national and EU level to reduce remaining risks in parts of the European banking sector.

New VAT rules VAT: More flexibility on VAT rates, less red tape for small businesses (23/01/2018)

On Thursday 18 January, the European Commission proposed new rules to give Member States more flexibility to set Value Added Tax (VAT) rates and to create a better tax environment to help SMEs flourish.

Infosession for freelance translators: New OMNI+ 17 tenders (19/12/2017)

Do you already translate for the EU institutions? Or are you interested in working with us? New call for tenders for provision of translation services to the European Commission, including English to Maltese.

Language events in December (19/12/2017)

Read more about the latest events organised by the Representation's Language Office.

A more united, stronger and more democratic Union: Joint Declaration on the EU's legislative priorities for 2018-2019 (18/12/2017)

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker signed on 14 December the new Joint Declaration on the EU's legislative priorities for 2018-2019, alongside President of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani and holder of the rotating Council Presidency and Prime Minister of Estonia, Jüri Ratas.

Brexit: European Commission recommends sufficient progress to the European Council (18/12/2017)

On Friday 8 December, the European Commission has recommended to the European Council to conclude that sufficient progress has been made in the first phase of the Article 50 negotiations with the United Kingdom. It is now for the European Council (Article 50) on 15 December 2017 to decide if sufficient progress has been made, allowing the negotiations to proceed to their second phase.

Commission unveils Action Plan for the Planet (18/12/2017)

Two years after the Paris Agreement, the EU is firmly in the lead in fighting climate change. To that end the Commission announced a series of initiatives for a modern and clean economy at the One Planet Summit in Paris on Tuesday 12 December.

Security Union Security Union: Commission closes information gaps to better protect EU citizens (18/12/2017)

On Tuesday 12 December, the European Commission has proposed to close information gaps by upgrading EU information systems for security, border and migration management and making them work together in a smarter and more efficient way.

The European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 takes off (18/12/2017)

Celebrations for the 2018 European Year of Cultural Heritage kicked off on Thursday 7 December at the European Culture Forum in Milan. The European Year of Cultural Heritage will put the spotlight on Europe's wealth of cultural heritage, showcasing its role in fostering a shared sense of identity and building the future of Europe.

Commission and European Investment Bank Group welcome final adoption of extended and improved European Fund for Strategic Investments (19/12/2017)

On Tuesday 12 December, Members of the European Parliament voted to adopt the Regulation to extend and enhance the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the central pillar of the Investment Plan for Europe. This successful final step follows the agreement in principle reached by the European Parliament and Member States on 13 September.

Commission sets out Roadmap for deepening Europe's Economic and Monetary Union (18/12/2017)

With a Roadmap for action and several concrete measures, the European Commission is delivering on the commitment made by President Jean-Claude Juncker in his 2017 State of the Union address and the Five Presidents' Report of 2015 to deepen Europe's Economic and Monetary Union.

Field Trips at the Gozo Government Experimental Farm (18/12/2017)

The Europe Direct Information Centre – Victoria Gozo (EDIC) organised field trips at the Gozo Government Experimental Farm for the schools participating in the EDIC – EKO SKOLA / LEAF Award Scheme.

Happy Festive season from all the staff at the Representation! (19/12/2017)

We wish you all the best for the festive season and a great start for the New Year!