Roberta Metsola Tells African Leaders How Malta Moved Past Colonialism
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola referred to Malta as an example of how a country can move past colonialism and prosper when addressing a summit of African leaders organised by the Italian government.
“I grew up in Malta, an island further to the south than Tunis,” Metsola said.
“Our generation is the first not to have experienced colonialism. We know how difficult it is to break with the past and forge new relationships as partners around the same table, but a new way is possible, desirable and achievable. Take the Mediterranean region and its potential to return to its former glory as a hub for business, exchange of goods, services, tourism. Ideas are limitless.”
Roberta Metsola with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
Metsola said that Africa has the potential to be a massive supplier of renewable and green energy, as well as raw materials and rare earths, to Europe, which she warned is facing an energy supply challenge.
“We can grow together, sustainably – not at the expense of each other,” she said.
The ItaliAfrica Summit is an initiative by Italy aimed at presenting the ‘Mattei Plan’, which proposes ways for Europe to help African economies prosper while stemming the flow of irregular migrants.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was present, as were representatives of 45 African countries, including the presidents of Tunisia, Senegal, Kenya, the Republic of Congo and Somalia.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel also addressed the summit.
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