2024-07-21 08:14:04
Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced plans to build a massive solar farm on the Libyan coast, linked to Malta by an electric cable, in a bid to boost cooperation between the two countries and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
This statement came during Abela’s participation in the Trans-Mediterranean Migration Forum, held in Tripoli, where Abela stressed that he does not see Libya only as a transit country for migrants, but also as a country with great economic potential for the Maltese and the renewable energy sector.
The project, which will be implemented under a memorandum of understanding signed in July 2023, will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy price stability in Malta, as well as showcasing the country’s ambitious energy vision that extends beyond meeting its domestic needs, Abela said.
“This project will enable Malta to sell surplus energy to European markets, and will contribute to strengthening Libya’s stability and ensuring a better future for its people,” Abela added.
Abela stressed the importance of cooperation between Malta and Libya in combating illegal immigration, stressing the need to find a balance between protecting the rights of migrants and ensuring their return to their countries of origin.
He pointed out that “investing in Libya will help prevent migrants from migrating north, will contribute to improving their living conditions, creating new job opportunities, and controlling smuggling and exploitation networks that profit from the suffering of migrants.”
Abela explained that “countries like Libya are under severe pressure due to the influx of migrants, and that Malta and Europe can help them face these challenges by investing in education and health and providing new job opportunities for young people.”
Source: The Malta Independent.
2024-07-21 08:14:04