Gozo’s economic growth must continue to result in common good and identity preservation, PM says

Prime Minister Robert Abela said that Gozo is an example of how economic growth must continue resulting in the common good, and the preservation of Maltese identity, speaking at the 25th anniversary of the Gozo Chamber of Commerce.

During a celebration marking the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Gozo Chamber of Commerce, Abela said that today the narrative is no longer about Gozo lagging behind, but rather about Gozo as an example of how economic growth can be intertwined with common good.

He said that this is achieved through the preservation of Gozo’s identity, encompassing not only its unique culture but also its rural and urban heritage.

Abela described the Gozo Chamber of Commerce as a strategic partner and an important voice for the government regarding Gozo.

He spoke of the issue of double insularity and accessibility, topics frequently raised by the Gozo Chamber of Commerce, and reiterated government’s commitment to addressing these challenges.

He referred to the completion of the second fibre optic cable and to the necessary permits secured to commence work on the airfield.

Abela said that once completed, this project will not only enhance connectivity between the two islands but also create an economic niche offering high-value activities in Gozo.

The Prime Minister noted how Gozitans today have the option to work in Gozo, with many Gozo-based businesses now confident enough to invest locally.

He said this comes after Gozo’s per capita economic growth in 2023 stood 1.5 times greater than the growth recorded between 2008 and 2013.

Abela said that the number of Gozitans employed in the private sector today is double what it was ten years ago.

Abela also pointed to significant investments in Gozo, including infrastructure projects such as the construction of new primary schools in Rabat and Nadur, as well as ongoing work on the aquatic and sports centre.

As he wished the Gozo Chamber of Commerce continued success, Abela said the government has focused on the future through the establishment of the Gozo Regional Development Authority (GRDA).

“For the first time, Gozitans have a voice and control over decisions that were previously taken elsewhere and imposed on them,” he said.

Abela described the strategy of Gozo as a “village island” as an important one, adding that with collective efforts, including from the business community, Gozo’s identity can be strengthened alongside economic growth and shared prosperity.

He commended the Gozo Chamber of Commerce for being an agent of positive change over the past 25 years.

During the event the book: “The Way Ahead, The Gozo Business Chamber in the Light of Gozo’s Recent History” was also launched. The book was written by Dr Michael Refalo who also intervened and presented the book. The book addresses both Gozo’s economic history and also the contribution of the Gozo Business Chamber to both Gozo’s economy and community. Dr Edward Warrington also intervened during the event reflecting on the role and future of the Chamber in today’s world.

In his opening remarks, Michael Galea President of the Gozo Business Chamber, highlighted that while there is the need to diversify the Gozitan economy, it is important that Gozo is granted regional autonomy so that it can outline its priorities based on the needs of the Gozitan community:

“For Gozo to succeed and be competitive there is the need for more autonomy. Our history shows that we were also determined to lead our own affairs and to decide that which is necessary for Gozo. . . Autonomy provides Gozo and Gozitans with the necessary authority to take the best decisions about the regional economic strategy, the development of new infrastructure, and regional politics. We know Gozo’s real needs because we live, work and employ people on this island.”

Michael Galea also highlighted the importance of connectivity, the need for a new hospital for Gozo, the safeguarding of the environment, and the Chamber’s role in promoting business in Gozo.

In his concluding remarks, Daniel Borg, the CEO of the Gozo Business Chamber, highlighted that its 25^th anniversary event served as an important point of reflection to both analyse the contribution of the Chamber, past and present, but also discern its future role. He remarked that this anniversary comes at an important crossroads in the country’s history as important anniversaries from when the country became independent, a republic, and a Member of the European Union, were celebrated. He pointed out that Gozo and the Gozitans are mature enough for Gozo to be an autonomous region. Nonetheless he pointed out that:

“While I believe in the need for the dialogue on the Renewal of the Constitution to restart, Gozo’s regional autonomy needs to be studied, implemented and introduced in the Constitution. Nonetheless in this process political dialogue is of vital importance. While there seems to be consensus from all parties on the political spectrum on the aspect of regionality, there is lack of consensus on the form on how the status of regionality should be implemented. And this is why these past days led me to reflect on the need for political dialogue which is honest, transparent, and sincere, and which does not suffocate the aspirations of the Gozitan community.”

He remarked about the Chamber’s institutional role and for this to be strengthened in order to enhance Gozo’s governance at all levels. Finally he highlighted that the Chamber’s continued existence cannot be taken for granted. But with the collaboration of all, its future can be secured.