“International engagement must remain a priority for the benefit of workers”

28 Jul 2026 - Economy | Government and Public Entities | Home | News | Politics | Sections

GWU holds meeting with Minister Chris Fearne

General Workers’ Union (GWU) Secretary General Kevin Camilleri stressed that engagement at the international level must remain a priority to ensure that the experience, policies and best practices developed beyond Malta’s shores are translated into tangible benefits for the country and for Maltese workers.

He was speaking following a meeting between the GWU’s central administration and the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, Chris Fearne. The meeting formed part of the series of discussions the GWU is holding with Cabinet Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries.

Camilleri said that the GWU and the Ministry share the same vision regarding the importance of strengthening collaboration in international forums and ensuring that Malta continues to play an active role in discussions affecting the world of work.

He explained that the meeting covered a number of important topics, including the maritime sector, diplomacy, and the work being carried out within the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). Camilleri noted that these discussions highlighted the importance the Ministry places on the role of trade unions at the international level.

For his part, Minister Chris Fearne emphasised that international solidarity among workers is essential. He stated that the stronger and more united trade unions are—not only in Malta but also across Europe and other regions of the world—the better they will be able to safeguard workers’ rights and address common challenges.

Minister Fearne said he was pleased to meet with the GWU leadership to discuss how cooperation between the two sides can be further strengthened, both at the national level and across Europe, the Mediterranean region and other international forums.

Also representing the GWU at the meeting were Deputy Secretary General Kevin Abela, Government, Public Entities and Health Section Secretary Kendrick Bondin, and International Secretary Robert Micallef.