The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has provided funds to nine local NGOs to carry out projects in Africa and South America to help in fighting poverty. For the year 2009, €330,000 were made available. This is an increase of 65% over the previous year.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Tonio Borg explained that 34 applications were received after an expression of interest was issued earlier this year. The committee set up by the Ministry analysed these applications and met with all eligible applicants. 

Nine NGOs were identified as satisfying all criteria. Criteria included that proposals should be related to infrastructural works in third world countries and projects are to be carried out by local NGOs. The Government of Malta is financing 80% of these projects. Agreements were signed by NGO representatives and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms Cecilia Attard Pirotta.

Dr Tonio Borg emphasised that the need for an overseas development policy and for a framework for humanitarian assistance derives from the values which underlie Malta’s Foreign Policy. These values include solidarity, respect for human life and for the dignity and freedom of every human being. 

In furtherance of these values, all development must be sustainable development, taking place in full respect for the cultural and natural heritage and environment. 

Furthermore, Minister Borg explained that Malta views development as a fundamental catalyst in ensuring that globalisation is a force for good, narrowing the wealth gap and ensuring that the human being and human dignity remains at the centre of economic and political action.

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