PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER: Speaker of the House of Representatives outlines concrete action priorities at Parliamentary Assembly Union for the Mediterranean committee meetings in Cairo, Egypt

At the Parliamentary Assembly Union for the Mediterranean (PA-UfM) committee meetings in Cairo this morning, Speaker Angelo Farrugia participated and addressed those present during several committee meetings, mainly outlining the need for concrete and measurable action across the Mediterranean region.

Speaker Farrugia addressed the Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights and stated that although the Barcelona Process has been with us for thirty years, the Mediterranean remains scarred by instability, mistrust and unmet potential. Mr Speaker stressed that Malta finds itself in the centre of the Mediterranean and can speak for both sides of its littoral. Both as member of the European Union an also as country with proximity and historical ties with North Africa and the Middle East. Speaker Farrugia emphasised that this Parliamentary Assembly needs a better structured operational role. It is important that this institution moves forward from declarations to action. Speaker Farrugia asked for each Committee to propose a measurable reform of this institution; its Bureau publishes an annual map of Mediterranean Governance; and invite youth as observers to the future sessions of the Assembly.

Speaker Farrugia intervened also during the Committee on Economic and Financial Affairs, Social Affairs and Education. He reiterated his message for a need of renewal and action based parliamentary institution. Mr Speaker emphasised that unfortunately the Mediterranean region has for too long been described as a corridor of crisis. However, he opined that this region has immense potential with youth, huge resources and historically tied by trade and culture. He emphasised that what divides us is not potential, but the will to act together and that success should be measured not on its GDP, but on the capacity of its people to learn, innovate and live with dignity. Speaker Farrugia shared Malta's experience in the European Union which clearly shows that prosperity is not based on size, but also on foresight, integrity and education.

Speaker Farrugia is also expected to the address the Speakers Summit which will conclude with the adoption of the Cairo Declaration. The Speaker-led delegation is composed also of Carmelo Abela, Amanda Spiteri Grech and Bernice Bonello.

Photos (SPK)