EUR OPEAN MEDICINE S A GENC Y MAL TA BID EUR OPEAN MEDICINE S A GENC Y MAL TA BID THE EUROPEAN MEDICINES AGENCY IN FOREWORD

Without doubt, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has a chequered history at the forefront in protecting and promoting public health in Europe through the evaluation and supervision of Foreword medicines for human and veterinary use.

This year marks an important decision on the relocation of the Agency from where it can continue to consolidate its base and strengthen its remit to the benefit of EU citizens.

Malta is prepared to host such an esteemed Agency. It can indeed be an ideal candidate through the provision of purpose-built state-of-the- art premises for EMA’s specialised needs thus leading to minimal disruption in its current operations. Apart from excellent physical infrastructure and excellent quality of life, Malta has a highly trained and flexible multilingual workforce which is conducive to research and innovation.

We will be providing all the necessary assistance in the relocation process. Personalised relocation support is offered including thorough consideration to housing and schooling for all employees and their dependents. These can also benefit from world-class free healthcare and .

My Government embraces the opportunity to act as a hub for the pharmaceutical industry and is committed to an open and forward-looking vision concerning the protection of public health. We pledge the necessary resources to ensure that these are harnessed to facilitate the current and future needs of such an evolving industry. We are committed to support EMA in its remit to ensure that European citizens continue to have access to medicines of the highest quality, safety and efficacy in line with EU health policy.

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established educational institutions, host the EMA as a testimony to our quality health care and a wide range commitment, performance and of support services. reputation in the . The tranquil environment assists in the Combined with Malta’s climate and enhancement of practical culture, these attributes guarantee a cooperation in regulatory sciences. pleasant working and living The quality of Malta’s characteristics experience. Malta’s safe social serves as a key aspect in attracting environment enables residents and leading experts and beating a visitors alike to come together easily potential brain drain. Malta’s to share experiences and learn from approachability is extended to each other. provide support needed as a result of the invocation of Article 50 triggering I believe in the importance of the exit of the from Helena Dalli sustaining the Agency’s prestigious the European Union. Support could role and public trust in fulfilling its be given by: Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer present responsibilities with Affairs and Civil Liberties excellence. Malta fully supports the building an Early Warning and ambitious vision of the EMA in Preparedness Systems for factors expanding its role in a present day influencing access to medicines dynamic regulatory environment. The European Medicines Agency Close collaboration within the providing training and material (EMA) is responsible for the scientific European medicines regulatory for the enhancement of quality evaluation, supervision and safety network promotes further training and harmonisation in the area of monitoring of medicines. A significant opportunities and research and regulatory sciences component of the EMA is its 900 high development in meeting patients’ calibre scientific personnel and the legitimate expectations for access to strengthening practical over 500 international meetings new and safe therapeutic options. cooperation, disseminating best organised every year hosting 36,000 practice and providing technical distinguished visitors. Malta invites a seamless relocation to support a state-of-the-art building at the heart This outstanding work for ensuring of the Mediterranean, taking into establishing a consultative forum the quality, safety and efficacy of consideration the scientific and to exchange information and medicines requires an environment technical needs as well as the pool knowledge that meets the needs of all concerned. ergonomic essentials of the people. Malta has several attributes which can I am confident that these premises I will endeavour to ascertain that the facilitate the smooth operations of the will provide EMA with all the potential movement of the European European Medicines Agency. These necessary elements to successfully Medicines Agency to Malta will be a include a highly trained and flexible fulfil its mission and grow further in positive milestone. multilingual workforce, an efficient the near future. international transport network, an Malta is presenting this invitation to excellent ICT infrastructure, well-

2 FOREWORD

preventable mortality in the EU and smooth interface between research has achieved significant improvement centres, policy makers and clinical in its amenable mortality rates. These practitioners enables rapid and agile are the result of a strong public health policy response. This creates an framework and accessible, quality environment that is well suited to host health services. These services are a regulatory system that seeks to available free of charge to all EMA balance stringent processes with employees and their dependants. efficiency, and that is based upon continuous learning and Malta has a long-standing tradition of development to take new and high standards for education and evolving needs into account. training of health care professionals. The of Malta has a tradition The has also of spanning several centuries and is established the discipline of Chris Fearne the centre of a scientific, academic regulatory sciences with the support and translational medical village. The of the Ministry for Health. These Minister for Health areas in close proximity to the include courses at Masters and University are the main teaching Doctorate level with international hospitals, the Life Sciences Park and a academic participation. These are number of international institutions organised independently of the including the Mediterranean pharmaceutical industry and The European Medicines Agency Academy of Diplomatic Studies. The emphasise transparency and ethical (EMA) is a prime example of the opening of a new overseas medical dimensions. The fact that Malta does added value that the European Union school and nursing school in Malta not have a large pharmaceutical can bring to Europe’s citizens. I will continue to strengthen the industry allows it to have a role as a believe that Malta possesses the provision of a highly qualified health neutral broker and provides a serene requisites that will ensure a successful care workforce. environment for EMA to operate. future for medicine regulation at European level. A critical aspect for The human resources and physical The Ministry for Health is strongly the relocation of the European facilities found within the Maltese supporting Malta’s bid to host the Medicines Agency is a smooth and health system are second to none. European Medicines Agency. I am seamless transition with minimal These resources will be available for personally convinced that with Malta disruption for staff and their families. the EMA to tap into. The research as its new home, the European community is rapidly growing. A Medicines Agency can look forward to Malta provides excellence in strong, internationally recognised, thriving and thereby bringing about education, health and general quality research platform in the area of benefits for patients, industry and the of life including recreational and genomics has been developed with a agency’s workers. cultural activity. Maltese spend close particular focus on diabetes, cancer to 90% of their lifespan in good and rare diseases. Malta fosters close health, longer than in any other EU links between the scientific, health country. Malta has the lowest rates of care and education communities. The

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affairs into regulatory sciences is witnessed recently in Malta through spearheaded by the National the hosting of regulators from Competent Authority. We joined seventeen different African countries forces with the University of Malta in together with experts from the contributing to education and European Medicines Agency research in the field of health. Our participating to the summit “Making success lies in developing teamwork Article 58 and other EMA outputs and advancing in areas of innovation, more relevant for non-EU regulators”. education, enterprise and employment. The provision of highly Malta is well-placed to assist in qualified personnel in the medicines achieving the objectives of the sector is given a priority. common strategy to 2020 adopted by the EMA and the Heads of Medicines At the Malta Medicines Authority, Agencies (HMA) through ensuring Anthony Serracino Inglott most of our technical employees timely access to new medicines, possess post-graduate qualifications. focusing on priorities such as bacterial Chairman We ventured with the University to resistance and reinforcing the Malta Medicines Authority appoint trainees at the Medicines excellence of the EU regulation model Authority who are following a level 8 by consolidating active participation doctoral course which is run in in the work of the EU regulatory The Malta Medicines Authority has collaboration between the Faculty of network. accepted with enthusiasm to lead the Medicine and Surgery at our bid of the Maltese Government to University and the University of Illinois The Malta Medicines Authority is host on our islands the European in Chicago making full use of state-of- honoured to provide personalised Medicines Agency (EMA). the-art electronic interactive media. support for a seamless transition from London to Malta through a dedicated It is suggested that aspects of the Scientific personnel of the Malta office. quality, safety and efficacy of Medicines Authority are working on medicinal products started in doctoral research projects in subjects Malta has established itself as a hub at The Holy Infirmary of the Knights related to regulatory sciences for the pharmaceutical and life Hospitaller of Saint John over four including genomics, biologics, sciences sectors in Europe. The hundred years ago. The Grand Master biosimilars, stem cell therapies, island’s unique legal framework, himself instituted regulations innovative medicines, safety signal strategic location, solid incentives, governing the production and detection and rare diseases. highly skilled bilingual workforce and acquisition of medicines to ensure the independence of the regulator are integrity of products with harsh The openness shown by the EMA some of the key success factors which penalties for any falsified medicines. towards the effort of middle and low helped Malta reach the present income countries in establishing a attractive status to host the European The present day movement high level regulatory system is Medicines Agency. translating pharmaceutical regulatory supported and endorsed. This was

4 FOREWORD

5 THE EUROPEAN MEDICINES AGENCY IN MALTA

Relocation of the European Medicines Agency in Malta: Proposal by the Maltese Government

6 HOSTING THE EUROPEAN MEDICINES AGENCY IN MALTA

The is offering a bespoke state-of-the Quality affordable housing, excellent health services, access art premises which will be tailored for the European to sport and cultural activities, short distances and an Medicines Agency. The new building will provide the abundance of sunshine present excellent living conditions European Medicines Agency with an environment that for all EMA staff members and their families. responds to their present and future projections. The specifications will include advanced technology catering for The Maltese Government will provide the European the organisation's operations and efficiencies. It will offer Medicines Agency with the same terms and conditions of superior ergonomic and aesthetic space and infrastructure, application of the EU Protocol on privileges and immunities commensurate to the status of a world-class organisation. as are applicable abroad to the The Maltese Government is cognisant that such a project Representation, European Asylum Support Office and entails an investment amounting to about 50 million , European Parliament Office in Malta. a building to host over 1,000 employees and 40,000 visitors per year, with an office area of at least 30,000 square metres. The Government of Malta will also provide full institutional support for the work of the European Medicines Agency, with adequate and competitive tax rebates in line with European norms.

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Why Malta?

8 WHY MALTA?

A pleasant working and living experience which will help attract high calibre persons that EMA needs to function effectively.

Full institutional support provided by all Maltese government entities as a one-stop shop specifically designed to enable a seamless and hospitable relocation for today’s EMA staff members

Prime aviation services placing Malta as a strategic hub for air connections which facilitate networking to European and international grids.

First class conference and hotel facilities which are centrally located and within easy and quick reach.

A vast variety of housing to meet different tastes and needs in urban or countryside location.

A high degree of multilingualism reflected in our educational system, with a number of schools offering International and European oriented curricula and qualifications. English is one of Malta’s two official languages.

An excellent advanced ICT infrastructure, well-established institutional quality health care services and a vast range of support services.

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Profile

10 PROFILE

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Ŋa-vub Marsalforn

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"-m|-†ࣃbf- ѴŊ -Ѵ- $-ŝ;uࣃ;l Ir-Rabat (Victoria) In-Nadur ѴŊ†mŠ-u bf- a-fmvb;Ѵ;l m7b ŠŊ*;‰h  ŠŊ*Ѵ; tana Il-Fon Ŋlँ-uu

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Malta is situated 1 hour away from Rome. Malta’s location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean has -‰‰;ࣃŊݮbuh given the islands a rich historical heritage that has resulted in a unique inclusive society. ѴŊ;ѴѴb;a- ѴŊ -‰u- ŠŊ*;lŠbf- †ँb00- a-ubࣃŊݮ-]a-t- The country’s unique architecture, language and way St. Paul's Bay Manikata ;l0uoh; d of life are testimony of its intricate past. Burmarra Ѵb-mŝvő -Ѵa-u]a†u "-mަbѴf-mŐ"|† ࢓;00b;]a Ŋlँ-uu ৵Ŋ $-vŊ"Ѵb;l-

৵bu- $-ŝ*0b;Š Malta joined the European Union in 2004. It became Il- Ѵ;†uŊ7a;raŊ‹v VALLETTA Birkirk u- ŠŊ*]a-fu- -aubf- ŝ‚-u7 "-m|-(;m; part of the Schengen Area in 2007 and part of the ub;a;Ѵ $-ŝ -Ѵb alkara -lu†m Floriana K tarfa L-Isla L-Im $-ѴŊ-m7-t a) Zone in 2008. -m7ubfb;| Bormla (Cos-p৵iŊc࢓u-00-u -Ѵ oulb -৵Ŋ࢓;00†ँ t ra Raba Rahal Gd$i-duŠb;Fmgu

†t- "-m|-†ࣃbf- Malta’s strategic position with its magnificent Grand -7Ŋ bm]Ѵb ৵Ŋ࢓;f|†m Marsaskala vŊ"bँँb;‰b a-Š-t -uv-ŠѴohh Harbour hosting the capital Valletta on one side and Ŋlt-00- -Ѵbuhor -ff;mŒ- the Three Cities on the other, has featured in major ѴŊ u;m7b -Ѵ"-C historical events. ৵Ŋ࢓†uub;t buŒ;00†]- )b;7bŒŊ,†uub;t Ghar Lapsi

Malta is definitely a great option to settle down due to its location in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea.

Population 434,403 The Maltese Islands have favourable climate with a Area 316km daily average of around 12 hours sunshine in summer Official Languages Maltese and English going down to 5 to 6 hours in mid-winter. It’s also hard Currency Euro to beat 300 days of sunshine in a year. Malta’s Capital City Valletta summers are as close to perfection as it gets. There’s Time Zone Central European Time no shortage of sunshine between the months of June and October.

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International Connections & Internal Transport

12 INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIONS & INTERNAL TRANSPORT

International Connections

Over the last few decades, Malta’s tourism and financial services growth has fostered a comprehensive and efficient network of international transport routes, ensuring good daily air connections to the majority of EU member states.

The Malta International Airport (MIA) welcomes over four and a half million passengers annually, and links three continents with over 90 airports directly to Malta. Airport activity at this level makes MIA one of the best connected in its class. Since its opening in 1992, the air terminal has received continuous investment in infrastructure, equipment, personnel and services. Malta’s airport features two runways and can land any class of commercial aircraft.

Internal Transport

Owing to the dense road network, with a length of around 2,500 kilometres serving a total area of just 316 square kilometres, all commercial and rural areas including business, retail and industrial centres are located within minutes of each other. This allows commuters to travel with ease from one area to another.

Public transport on the Maltese islands is regulated by Transport Malta . There is a total of 80 different routes that link the different localities in Malta to major hubs such as Valletta, Mater Dei Hospital, the airport and to other destinations. It is efficient and reasonably priced. are the predominant means of public . The main terminus is in Valletta and most bus routes start and end in Valletta. The average length of a bus trip in Malta is 20 minutes, the longest trip takes 50 minutes.

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14 FLYING TIME TO MALTA - DIRECT FLIGHTS

Flying time to Malta Direct Flights

Athens 1h30 Paris 2h20 Berlin 2h40 Prague 2h15 Brussels 2h30 Rome 1h10 Budapest 1h35 Sofia 1h45 Cyprus 2h30 Stockholm 3h40 Dublin 3h30 The Hague 2h45 London 3h05 Vienna 2h00 Luxembourg 2h25 Vilnius 3h00 Madrid 2h10

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Forecast Average Weekly Flights for 2017

16 FORECAST AVERAGE FLIGHTS FOR 2017

Amsterdam 10 Frankfurt 15 Naples 2 Athens 12 Gdansk 2 Newcastle 3 Barcelona 2 Geneva 3 Nuremburg 3 Bari 3 Girona 2 Oslo 1 Belgrade 4 Glasgow (GLA) 2 Palermo 2 Bergamo 7 Glasgow (Prestwick) 1 Paris (Charles de Gaulle) 7 Berlin (SXF) 2 Hamburg 3 Paris (Orly) 12 Berlin (TXL) 4 Hannover 1 Pisa 3 Bilund 3 Helsinki 3 Poznan 2 Birmingham 6 Istanbul 14 Prague 4 Bologna 5 Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden 2 Riga 2 Bordeaux 2 Katowice 2 Rome (Fiumicino) 18 Bournemouth 2 Krakow 2 Sofia 3 Bristol 5 Leeds (Bradford) 3 Stockholm (Arlanda) 3 Brussels 16 Liverpool 2 Stockholm (Skavska) 3 Bucharest 2 London (Gatwick) 18 Stuttgart 1 Budapest 6 London (Heathrow) 16 Toulouse 2 Cardiff 1 London (Luton) 8 Trapani 3 22 London (Stansted) 5 Treviso 3 Cluj 2 Luxembourg 1 Tunis 3 Cologne 3 Lyon 2 Turin 2 Copenhagen 5 Madrid 5 Valencia 2 Dubai / Larnaca 7 Manchester 13 Vienna 13 Dublin 5 Marseille 4 Vilnius 2 Dusseldorf 5 Milan (Linate) 7 Warsaw 2 East Midlands 4 Milan (Malpensa) 2 Wroclaw 2

Edinburgh 4 Moscow (Sheremetyevo) 2 Zurich 11 Eindhoven 6 Munich 17 Exeter 1 Nantes 1

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Hotel & Conference Facilities

18 HOTEL & CONFERENCE FACILITIES

In Malta one may find a vast selection The hotel industry in Malta counts an of accommodating over 45,000 of hotels, ranging from the larger annual capacity exceeding 66 million delegates. These offer top of the range internationally-branded resorts to the bedrooms and 40,500 bed places on conference facilities, including event small family-run boutique hotels; from a daily bases. organisation and management, coastal establishments located within audio-visual equipment and walking distance from the beach to The Conference facilities are spread translation and interpretation services. rustic residences situated inland and all over the Maltese islands and city hotels. include 289 conference halls capable

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Renting Property in Malta

20 RENTING PROPERTY IN MALTA

Renting Property in Malta

One can source a property to rent by paid, when and how rent is due, the equivalent of one month’s rent going through one of the many real date the tenancy began and its upfront and rent will usually also be estate agents in Malta or by searching duration, services that are provided by paid in advance. online or in the local press. Once you the landlord, such as a cleaning have found what you are looking for, services or maintenance, the length of A dedicated office will offer its services you will need to sign a Tenancy notice required before termination of to EMA personnel to find appropriate Agreement, which protects both your the tenancy, and, when applicable, logging based on one’s needs and interests and those of your new good practice rules for the common expectations from a vast variety of landlord. This agreement will specify areas. The majority of landlords will residences available for rent or information such as how bills will be require a deposit, which is usually the purchase.

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Average rent price in Malta

22 AVERAGE RENT PRICES IN MALTA

Average rent prices in Malta

Sliema, St Julians, Gzira & Valletta (Central) Size Average 3 bedroom flats (110-130 m 2) €1169 2 bedroom flats (80-100 m 2) €909 1 bedroom flats (40-60 m 2) €700 Non-detached houses (110-130 m 2) €1553 Detached houses (190-220 m 2) €2713

Mellieħa, St Paul’s Bay, Qawra & Bugibba (North) Size Average 3 bedroom flats (110-130 m 2) €775 2 bedroom flats (80-100 m 2) €567 1 bedroom flats (40-60 m 2) €411 Non-detached houses (110-130 m 2) €1138 Detached houses (190-220 m 2) €2069

Vittoriosa, Senglea, & Marsaskala (South) Size Average 3 bedroom flats (110-130 m 2) €693 2 bedroom flats (80-100 m 2) €514 1 bedroom flats (40-60 m 2) €382 Non-detached houses (110-130 m 2) €1057 Detached houses (190-220 m 2) €1807

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Education System

24 EDUCATION SYSTEM

School System

The early years of education are mainly focused on personal, The ethos of is that students can realise social and emotional development as well as creative skills their full potential within a well-operated and engaging through play and activities. Primary education starts at the educational setting. Education in Malta is based on a fruitful age of 5 years and the areas of learning include English, and rewarding programme with an organised and flexible Mathematics and Science, while students are also exposed outlook which translates to ensure that each student reaches to other areas including Information Technology, personal his or her maximum potential in a smooth and enjoyable and social education and artistic skills. manner. The curriculum of is designed to give a The curriculum is structured so that it accommodates wide range of study in order to tap and develop each students at any stage and welcomes newcomers at any level. student’s full potential. The emphasis at this level is to offer a This is a characteristic of Maltese education which focuses on broad programme which ensures the acquisition of basic students and their specific needs ensuring a seamless skills as well as preparing all students for further education educational transition. through career guidance. During this term students are prepared for the Matriculation and Secondary Education There are no fees imposed for all European citizens at all Certificate(MATSEC) certification course which opens the stages of the education system from child care centres to door for entry to the University of Malta and tertiary education. abroad.

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International Schools

There are educational establishments that provide for international education in Malta. These include St. Edwards College, Verdala International School and St. Martin’s College. They can cater for the following language requirements: French, German, Italian and Spanish. Arrangements can also be made for support in other languages.

St. Edward’s College offers the International Baccalaureate The Verdala International School was established specifically Diploma Program (IBDP). The IBDP includes three subjects to cater for the needs of Malta’s expatriate community. In fact at higher level and another 3 subjects at standard level. Since the vast majority of pupils in the school are non-Maltese and its inception, the international Baccalaureate Diploma all lessons are delivered in the English language. Spanish is Program at St. Edward’s College has had exceptional scores. part of the curriculum in addition to English and Maltese. The College’s students have reached an average of 82% when Students can benefit from a holistic educational syllabus that compared to the international average of 79% is recognized worldwide. The School offers the international General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) and the St Edwards’s College has developed its teaching programs IBDP. and methodologies to cater for the needs of both Maltese and International students. This school in fact caters for pre- The Verdala International School is a member of the primary, primary, secondary and upper-secondary European Council of International Schools and the educational needs (ages 3 – 19) The languages of instruction Mediterranean Association of International Schools. It is also in all learning systems is French and Italian as part of the accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and languages curriculum, in addition to English and Maltese. colleges in the United States, enabling us to offer a US High school diploma. In addition, it is also authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma program to Grades 11 and 12 and the IGCSE program and testing to Grades 9 and 10.

26 EDUCATION SYSTEM

St Martin’s College has developed a European-oriented college offering a pre-university education focused on education system based on professional research and intense teaching in small groups. The sixth form is now a extensive experience. The School caters for secondary and success story, with tailored guidance offered to students who upper secondary needs (ages 10 – 19) while its junior school, are encouraged to choose a combination of subjects that Chiswick House School (ages 6 months – 10 years) provides best suits their personal abilities and ambitions. Individual facilities in addition to a primary level attention is guaranteed as groups are kept small. While the education. The language of instruction at Chiswick House majority of students follow the MATSEC certification course School and St Martin’s College is English, with French, which prepares students for entry to the University of Malta, German and Italian forming part of the language curriculum, as well as enabling them to apply for universities abroad, they in addition to Maltese. The College also runs a bilingual are also allowed to select combinations of subjects program in conjunction with the Italian embassy. depending on the institution of higher education they might be hoping to join. St Martin’s college is registered with UCAS, In 2007, St Martin’s College inaugurated a modern, new sixth so that students may apply online to UK universities through form in the belief that there was a niche for a high-quality the college.

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Tertiary Education

Malta offers extensive possibilities for tertiary education:

The University of Malta The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)

The University of Malta is the highest teaching institution in Established in 2001, the Malta College of Arts, Science and Malta. It is publicly funded and is open to all those who have Technology (MCAST) is Malta’s leading the requisite qualifications. The university has a 400 year old and training institution. Through its six institutes in Malta and history and today is comprised of 14 faculties, 19 institutes and the Campus, MCAST offers 185 full-time and over 300 a student population of 11,500, including over 1000 part-time vocational courses ranging from certificates to international students from 92 different countries following degrees (MQF Level 1 to Level 6). This enables its students to full-time or part-time degree and diploma courses. The be prepared for careers in different sectors of the economy university regularly hosts a large number of Erasmus and or for higher education. other exchange students. MCAST collaborates closely with local industries to ensure A basic Foundation Studies Course enables international that the knowledge, skills and competencies within its high school students who have completed their secondary curricula are appropriate and relevant to a dynamic and or high school education overseas but who do not have the forward-looking economy. This relationship stimulates the necessary entry requirements to qualify for admission to an College’s success – its programmes are flexible, relevant and undergraduate degree course at the University of Malta. All responsive to the aspirations of their students and the needs lectures are delivered in English and all examinations, other of industries, which are constantly evolving to meet the than those which form part of language courses are also in challenges of a changing global economy. English. The international General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate are recognised as valid entry requirements into the University of Malta.

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The International Maritime Law Institute Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies

The IMO International Maritime Law Institute was established The Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies (MEDAC) in 1988 through an international agreement between the is an institution of higher learning with a unique focus on the International Maritime Organisation, a specialised agency of Mediterranean region. It offers Master degrees in Diplomatic the United Nations and the Government of Malta. The Studies and a Joint Masters Programme with George Mason Institute is an international centre for the training of University in Conflict Resolution and Mediterranean Security. specialists in maritime law and also contributes to the development and dissemination of knowledge and expertise DIPLOFOUNDATION in international maritime law, with special reference to the international regulations and procedures for safety and Diplo is a non-profit foundation established by the efficiency of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution. governments of Malta and Switzerland. Diplo works to increase the role of small and developing states and to improve global governance and international policy development primarily through online courses.

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Life Long Learning American University of Malta (AUM)

Life Long Learning opportunities are also abundantly The American University of Malta will be taking its first available in Malta. Various courses are offered, covering a students on August 2017. The curricula of the AUM are to be number of areas including; drama, music, art and basic provided by the DePaul University. The University will be classes. A night institute for further and higher located in two different campuses, one in Marsascala and education provides further opportunities for adults wishing another one in Cospicua. to pursue various vocational courses, including IT and computer practices. Barts Medical School and the London School of Dentistry

In the coming months, the Barts Medical School and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry (Queen Mary University of London), will open its doors in Gozo. The Malta programmes have a dedicated teaching building and a state-of-the-art anatomy centre on the Gozo Campus which is next to the Gozo General Hospital. Their five-year Medicine MBBS offers the same curriculum that is taught in the Barts Medical School in London.

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Knowledge of languages

32 KNOWLEDGE OF LANGUAGES

Knowledge of languages

The sociolinguistic situation in Malta is one of a diffused In Malta in the secondary sector, 85% of the students sit for societal bilinguilism, with the presence of the two official the Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) English exam, 45% languages, Maltese and English. Given our bilingual national sit for the SEC Italian exam, 21% sit for the SEC French exam, setting, students can acquire and learn these two languages 7% sit for the SEC German and 6% sit for the SEC Spanish. to develop their cognitive skill and to be able to make In the EU member states, 51% of secondary general progress in the subject content. All children have the education students study two or more languages. In Malta, oppotunity to develop these two languages. 76% of secondary education students learn Maltese, English and one or more foreign languages.

33 THE EUROPEAN MEDICINES AGENCY IN MALTA Lifestyle & Family

34 LIFESTYLE & FAMILY

Lifestyle and family

Everyday life is relatively affordable compared to most healthcare. The Government’s health centre system works Western countries. A pint of beer at a small pub can go for as side by side with a thriving private sector, with 3 main private little as €1.50. Food is also very affordable, with a meal in an hospitals in Malta which provide a wide range of medical inexpensive restaurant costing around €12. The cost of living services. index in Malta is 22% cheaper than that of Milan and 39% cheaper than that of Paris. Private health insurance in Malta is extremely inexpensive. Where simple in-patient plans go for as low as €90 a year, a When it comes to violent crime, Malta is an extremely safe payment of around €350 a year will get you full cover. country. According to Eurostat, Malta has only 0.3 violent crime incidents per 1,000 inhabitants. Largely due to comprehensive and strict government regulations, the banking sector in Malta is a healthy and Malta is one of the fastest growing Information and robust one. There are several major banks, including both Communications Technology (ICT) markets in Europe. ICT, local ones like the Bank of Valletta, and foreign chains like e-commerce Media and internet law have evolved rapidly in HSBC Holdings PLC and Banif Financial Group. Malta over the past years and now constitute an integral part of the local economy. The Maltese government is focused on Malta is characterised by relatively narrow roads and traffic is developing Malta into a high income economy and in these generally forgiving when compared to other EU cities. last years, invested heavily in the ICT sector as a platform for Largely because of this, Malta also ranks among the lowest in inward investment. the EU in terms of fatal traffic accidents.

All health care in Malta is free. EU national residents in Malta The Maltese are some of the nicest and kindest people that are eligible to receive free medical treatment at government you will ever meet. Especially in smaller towns and villages, funded hospitals and clinics through the EU system on most people are always ready to go out of their way to help coordination of social security benefits in kind. Malta also you in any immaginable way. It is very easy to integrate with ranks amongst the top 6 in the EU for the overall quality of local communities.

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The is a Mediterranean diet based on fresh seasonal sausage) with galletti (Maltese crackers) and some bigilla (broad bean ingredients, and is one of the healthiest and tastiest in the region. pate) served with Maltese bread and olive oil; or on a cold day hot Maltese food is rustic in character, full of flavour and colour typical of pastizzi (savoury ricotta filled pastries) are perfect with wine or coffee. a central Mediterranean Island. Our food is influenced by Malta's proximity to and North Africa but with a special slant all our own. Summer days at the beach means ħobż biż-żejt, a popular snack made from a thick slice of crusty Maltese bread, rubbed with juicy, red Traditional food accompanies us through life; a glass of smooth local tomatoes and topped with mint, a little onion, sheep's cheese and wine with friends in a village bar comes with a dish of olives, some anchovies all soaked in delicious green olive oil; a taste of sunshine, a ġbejniet (local sheep's cheeses), zalzett (coriander flavoured Maltese taste of Malta.

36 LIFESTYLE & FAMILY

Over the past few years, Malta has built a reputation for itself year later, Malta introduced a law which made it legally as the most LGBTIQ friendly state in Europe, mainly through possible for an individual to change the gender they were a number of new laws and policies which have been assigned at birth in an easy and efficient manner. Conversion implemented to ensure equality and safety for all, regardless therapy is also illegal in Malta, and government has recently of gender identity or sexual orientation. introduced an ‘x’ option on identification documents.

The Maltese Constitution clearly ensures the enjoyment of Over and above the laws implemented, it is the way LGBTIQ fundamental rights and freedoms for all, and prohibits individuals are treated in day to day life which makes Malta discrimination on the basis of gender identity or sexual one of the best places to live in. Most Maltese are welcoming orientation. As of 2014, same-sex civil unions and adoptions to all, and the gay community is thriving. There are also a by same sex couples are legal, and to date, government is number of ‘gay-friendly’ pubs, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels working towards introducing marriage equality in Malta. A and events which may be easily found.

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Maltese Cultural Activities

38 MALTESE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

Carnival Malta World Music Festival

In Malta, the roots of Carnival can be traced back to the early At the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta has always 1400s, although it was the Knights of the Order of St John played an important role as a link between north and south, that endowed the national festivities with spectacle and east and west of our surroundings. This is precisely what pageantry. Such a venerable tradition means that much that MWMF celebrates- the beauty of cultural diversity, the is new in today’s Carnival is also – in fact - old. Carnival is all exchange and dialogue of people’s roots and the vitality that about diversity and inclusion – and, ultimately, joining in the is borne out of such experiences and expressed through the fun. Dance competitions, float defilés, swarming streets and powerful medium of music. MWMF always seeks to expand exuberant costumes that are an integral part of Carnival. For its identity as a festival in the middle of our beautiful seas and a few days Valletta is in party mode. Streets are transformed, connecting with neighbouring countries and beyond. children everywhere are in fancy dress, gigantic floats push their way through the crowds. Year after year, Carnival arrives, changing the mood of the capital. And while much around us changes, some traditions remain.

39 THE EUROPEAN MEDICINES AGENCY IN MALTA

Għanafest

Għanafest is a three day world music festival which takes place every year in June in the enchanting surroundings of the Argotti Botanical Gardens in Floriana. The Festival takes its name from the Maltes folk singing known as “Għana” (pronounced A-na). The programme includes some of this musical genre which goes well beyond the local boundaries, converging soundscapes and cultures that look seemingly disparate but are indeed closer than one may think.

MALTA INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

Featuring a varied programme of theatre, music, dance and visual arts and offering a broad range of genres and artistic forms, the festival is held mainly in open-air venues in Malta’s warm summer nights. The Festival also includes a number of residencies and workshops with some of its international guests. Listed by the UK Sunday Times Travel section on its “Top 10 opera, dance and arts festivals” taking place across Europe in 2011, the Malta International Arts Festival has achieved international recognition. The Festival is a member of the European Festivals Association.

MALTA JAZZ FESTIVAL

Valletta’s magnificent sets the backdrop to the Malta Jazz Festival. This event has become a byword for high- calibre performances which delight jazz aficionados and lay persons alike. Held in the open-air setting of Ta’ Liesse, contemporary music comes together with a sense of history for one of the main annual highlights in Malta’s cultural and artistic calendar.

40 MALTESE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

NOTTE BIANCA

Notte Bianca, Malta’s beloved nightlong arts and culture festival sees the capital’s streets and cultural venues come alive thanks to a carefully designed programme of events offering a variety of entertainments and experiences.

THREE PALACES FESTIVAL

Music of quality and distinction. The Three Palaces Festival, now in its youthful fourth edition, has been building a tremendous following allowing the world’s greatest artists and younger generation musicians to come and celebrate together with us all on Malta during the festival month of November.

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42 THE MALTA MEDICINES AUTHORITY

THE MALTA MEDICINES AUTHORITY

The Malta Medicines Authority is an independent science Doctoral level. An international fellowship program is offered and health oriented public entity based on the values of to support individuals undergoing Doctoral studies in an quality, innovation, people and integrity. The Authority effort to shape a new generation of pharmaceutical leaders. regulates medicinal products for human use and pharmaceutical activities. In July 2016, the Authority relocated to the Malta Life Sciences Park, a state-of-the-art building located a couple of metres The Medicines Authority operates in a proactive environment away from Malta’s University campus and Malta’s state to meet the dynamics of scientific development, new hospitals. All of the Authority’s processes are covered legislation and stakeholder needs. With a track record of through the ISO 9001 certification and the Authority acts in assessing over two hundred and fifty medicinal products as tandem with scientific developments to ensure that it is Reference Member State and a team of competent abreast with latest technologies. inspectors carrying out third country Good Manufacturing Practice inspections in five countries. Malta has established Customer satisfaction and transparent dialogue with itself as a hub for the pharmaceutical and life sciences stakeholders are pivotal in ensuring that the Medicines sectors in Europe. Authority reaches its objectives. The Authority identifies improvement actions on a continuous basis to meet Malta’s unique legal framework, strategic location, solid stakeholders’ needs and expectations. Following stakeholder incentives, highly skilled bilingual workforce and feedback, the Authority launched a number of initiatives, independence of the regulator are some of the key success amongst which a fast track procedure for authorisation of factors which helped Malta reach this prestigious status. A certain medicinal products. number of structural reforms aiming at positioning Malta and the Authority as a centre of excellence have been The Malta Medicines Authority participates actively in implemented. The reforms were based on having the right European and International fora. The Authority works in close people and resources to transform challenges into collaboration with the European Medicines Agency and the opportunities. European medicines regulatory network. The Malta Medicines Authority was the first agency to deliver joint The Authority invests approximately 10% of its annual budget scientific advice with another Member State so as to facilitate on training, capacity building and development. Over 30% accelerated access to medicines. of its employees are carrying out studies at Masters and

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44 THE MALTA MEDICINES AUTHORITY

Bilateral meetings with different Heads of Medicines Agencies are organised on a periodic basis in line with the Authority’s commitment to be a change driver at European level. A recent collaboration is that the Medicines Evaluation Board of the Netherlands started outsourcing part of its assessment work to the Malta Medicines Authority.

The Authority is active in terms of European Good Manufacturing Practice (EU GMP) third-country inspections. The inspections carried out by the Malta Medicines Authority lead to the potential award of an EU GMP certificate. This activity facilitates the prospect of more companies importing medicinal products to Europe embracing the strong regulatory framework of the European Union.

Patients remain at the heart of the Authority’s work. Medicines availability is being safeguarded by supporting stakeholders in increasing access to medicines and developing opportunities for patient empowerment. The Authority has established a Medicines Intelligence and Access Unit to support this objective. The success story of the Malta Medicines Authority underpins the potential of developing a reference centre in Malta to foster excellence and co-operation in the European Medicines regulatory system.

45 EUR OPEAN MEDICINE S A GENC Y MAL TA BID

Malta Medicines Authority Sir Temi Zammit Buildings, Malta Life Sciences Park, San Gwann SGN 3000 Malta

Email: [email protected] Telephone: +356 2343 9000

www.medicinesauthority.gov.mt