Updated 1330
‘Europe must set out its own future’ – Metsola at European Summit: European Parliament President Roberta Metsola emphasised that Europe must shape its own future, calling for unity and collaboration on critical issues like security, migration, and strategic autonomy. Speaking at the European Political Community Summit in Budapest, she stated that Europe should no longer rely on “geopolitical outsourcing” and must lead proactively on global challenges. Metsola highlighted the need for a shared European approach to migration, urging the swift implementation of the European Migration and Asylum Pact. She stressed that Europe is prepared to bolster the transatlantic relationship, support the rules-based international order, and act as a beacon of hope and stability in turbulent times. Metsola also underscored the importance of political stability within Europe to achieve these goals.
European economy may face problems with tariffs promised by Trump -financial consultant: Financial consultant Silvan Mifsud warned that 10% tariffs on European imports to the U.S., proposed by newly elected President Donald Trump, could seriously harm European economies, including Germany’s struggling industries. German sectors like automotive and metal are lobbying the EU to prevent these tariffs, as they could exacerbate existing challenges. Malta, with its open economy, would also feel the impact as lower income and job losses in Europe could reduce demand and trade. Mifsud noted that Trump’s election buoyed U.S. markets, driven by his promises of tax cuts and reduced regulation, which investors see as boosting profitability. Additionally, markets appreciated the resolved election, which avoided prolonged uncertainty. Mifsud highlighted that key issues like inflation and migration heavily influence public sentiment.
Private schools to cash in €15m from budget: The government will increase funding for private schools to €15 million next year, doubling its support, largely to cover teacher salary rises under a recent agreement. This funding includes €8 million for learning support assistants, with an additional €7 million earmarked for salary adjustments. The agreement caps annual fee increases at 12% for private schools and will provide a total of €27 million over five years for salaries. Parents will also see doubled tax credits for private schooling, with credits rising to €3,500 for kindergartens, €4,600 for primary, and €6,500 for secondary students. Meanwhile, Church schools will receive €138 million, up from €95 million in 2020, mostly to cover staff salaries under a longstanding government agreement.
Morning Briefing
Two ministers violated ministerial ethics by giving consultancy job to Minister’s partner
Tourism Minister Clayton Bartolo and Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri abused their authority and violated ministerial ethics by appointing Bartolo’s now-wife to a position for which she was unqualified and did no work, according to a critical report. The report found both ministers misused public funds, with Bartolo motivated by personal interests in appointing Amanda Muscat as a consultant in their ministries. Retired Chief Justice Joseph Azzopardi outlined these findings in a 40-page report published by the parliamentary ethics committee on Thursday. Azzopardi detailed that Muscat, initially Bartolo’s personal assistant, was promoted to consultant with a salary of nearly €62,000 in 2020, followed by another pay increase to €68,000 when she joined Camilleri’s ministry in 2021. She was selected without relevant qualifications or experience in tourism and performed no consultancy duties. The PN and Arnold Cassola, who requested the investigation, immediately called for both ministers’ resignation. Minister Bartolo expressed his apologies in a social media post, a move was considered sufficient by the Prime Minister. (Times of Malta)
PM calls for unified EU action on migration
Prime Minister Robert Abela told EU leaders that addressing irregular migration requires unified action across Europe and collaboration with countries along primary migration routes. Speaking at the European Political Community Summit in Budapest, Abela noted that no single solution exists for irregular migration and that a combination of well-funded measures is essential. Proposals included informing potential migrants about the risks of dangerous journeys, working with countries like Libya, and dismantling human trafficking networks. The summit also addressed European security amid recent events in Ukraine, the Middle East, upcoming U.S. elections, African conflicts, and key global economic issues such as energy, transport, and technology. (Maltatoday)
Malta to aim for maritime innovation leadership by 2030
At the Decarbonising the Future: Shore-to-Ship Leadership Conference, held at Malta’s Grand Harbour and Marsaxlokk Harbour, Transport Minister Chris Bonett emphasised Malta’s goal to build a sustainable maritime industry that supports the environment. He noted that Malta’s efforts, including the Malta Grand Harbour Shore-to-Ship Project, aim to position the country as a leader in maritime innovation and energy efficiency well beyond 2030. The conference, organised with Transport Malta and the European Onshore Power Supply Association, underlined Malta’s commitment to advancing global maritime decarbonisation.
