Two Memoranda of Understanding were signed at the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta for the implementation of projects financed through the Norwegian and European Economic Area Financial Mechanisms. The agreements define how “€10.8 million will be spent on projects funded by the respective Financial Mechanisms,” with Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein providing the funding according to their EU-related obligations. An additional €1.5 million will be allocated from local funds.
Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, recalled that Malta received around €8 million from these mechanisms between 2014 and 2021, enabling investments in quality-of-life improvements, institutional strengthening, and modernised services. These included the first Sensory Integration Clinic for children with disabilities, newborn screening initiatives, and blood safety verification. Projects also reached “more than 2,000 children and teenagers,” while around 500 young people received independent living support.
The Minister highlighted cultural achievements, such as the digitisation of 7,000 artefacts at the Maritime Museum, and praised community projects promoting inclusion and environmental sustainability. He emphasised that effective results stem from collaboration.
Looking ahead to the 2021–2028 cycle, Malta will again work with the three countries to reduce socio-economic disparities. Planned investments include €2.2 million for civil protection, €2 million for cultural site restoration, €1.5 million for domestic violence prevention capacity, and €2.8 million for disability support.
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