MEP Peter Agius meets European Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas to discuss EU support for Gozo’s connectivity

“Gozo’s connectivity is not just a national issue; it is a European challenge. We must ensure that Gozo receives its fair share of EU funding to improve transport links and facilitate economic development. The European Commission has shown interest to our proposals, and now it is up to us to turn these opportunities into real projects that benefit Gozitans.”

MEP Peter Agius made these remarks following a meeting held with European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, to discuss how EU funds can be leveraged to improve Gozo’s connectivity and infrastructure.

The meeting comes ahead of a national conference on Gozo’s connectivity organised by MEP Agius, which will take place on Saturday 15 March 2025 at 10am at the Kempinski Hotel in San Lawrenz, Gozo.The conference, titled “Vapuri Ġodda għal Għawdex – X’tista’ tagħmel l-Ewropa? X’irridu nagħmlu aħna?”, will bring together policymakers, stakeholders, and experts to explore solutions for improving maritime links between Gozo and Malta, as well as the broader role of EU funding in strengthening the island’s economic and social development.

During his meeting with Commissioner Tzitzikostas, MEP Agius underlined his commitment to placing Gozo at the top of his agenda, a pledge he made before the June 2024 European elections. He reiterated that ensuring better connectivity for Gozo is crucial for economic growth, tourism, job creation and overall quality of life for Gozitans.

Central to the discussions was the report published by MEP Agius in November 2024, which identified EU funding opportunities for strengthening connectivity and financing new ferry services for Gozo. The report highlights key EU financial instruments, including the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and Cohesion Funds, which could be tapped into for modern, sustainable, and reliable ferry transport.

Commissioner Tzitzikostas welcomed Agius’ initiative, stressing the European Commission’s commitment to supporting regional connectivity and ensuring that island communities like Gozo fully benefit from EU investment mechanisms. He acknowledged the importance of sustainable transport solutions and encouraged Maltese authorities to take full advantage of available EU programs.

MEP Agius also referred to the regulation on the use of renewable and low-carbon fuels in maritime transport, underlining that securing short-term exemptions is not enough; long-term solutions must be found to ensure an efficient ferry service operated by clean, sustainable vessels. He emphasized that Gozo deserves a future-proof transport system that is both environmentally friendly and meets the needs of the island’s residents and businesses.

MEP Agius also referred to the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and the need to ensure that the next EU budget prioritizes connectivity for Gozo. Agius stressed that the Government of Malta must take an active role in securing EU funding for long-term investments in Gozo’s transport infrastructure to guarantee reliable and sustainable links for the island.

The discussions also covered the proposed Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, which aims to prioritize investment in transport decarbonization solutions. Agius highlighted how this initiative could provide vital funding for sustainble ferry services and sustainable mobility options for Gozo, reinforcing the island’s commitment to meeting EU climate targets while improving connectivity.