Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1511621
11 NEWS 16.11.2023 APS Bank supports Lehen il-Malti and Il-Kamra Sensorja at Malta Book Festival A delegation of e Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry and Malta Business Bureau participated in the European Parliament of Enterprises (EPE) organised by Eurochambres, the European Association of Chambers of Commerce. e EPE is the largest event in Brussels recreating a parliamentary session giving the floor to entrepreneurs and represents a unique opportunity for businesses to have a direct debate with high repre- sentatives of the EU institutions on EU policies. During the EPE, entrepreneurs also expressed their opinion on several questions through a voting procedure on major EU business-related issues. Discussing 'Unlocking the potential of the single market for skills and human capital', e Malta Chamber President Chris Vassallo Cesareo stated, "e pri- vate sector is keen on turning workplaces into learning centres to promote upskill- ing and reskilling of people, but it cannot face this challenging task on its own. EU funding towards training programmes, educational grants, and skills forecast- ing tools, are critical to complement and build on the investment already under- taken by business." On 'Navigating the energy crisis', Malta Business Bureau President Alison Mizzi emphasized that, "focusing solely on cur- rently available solutions must not come at the expense of continued innovation. EU policy must be forward-looking, flex- ible, and fast to anticipate technological developments which we will certainly see in the coming years." With regards to 'Strengthening Eu- rope's competitiveness in uncertain times", e Malta Chamber Deputy President Nick Xuereb highlighted that, "SMEs potential for growth through in- ternational trade is significant. e inclu- sion of dedicated SME Chapters in Free Trade Agreements aimed at improving transparency and increase access to in- formation is welcome. But more effort is required so that rules are harmonised as much as possible. is is key to provide a level playing field for all companies, es- pecially SMEs, to compete globally." During this visit, the delegation also had the opportunity to meet European Parliament President Roberta Metsola to discuss some of the challenges being faced by Maltese businesses as a result of EU legislation that does not look at the specific realities of island states. Changes to the EU governance in view of future EU enlargement was also discussed. Other members of the delegation in- cluded Dr. Marthese Portelli, Mr. Wil- liam Spiteri Bailey, Mr. Mark Bajada, Mr. Brian Muscat, Mr. Sergio Vella, Mr. Joe Tanti, and Mr. Daniel Debono. e visit was organised by the Brus- sels office of the Malta Business Bureau (MBB). e MBB is the EU-business ad- visory organization of e Malta Cham- ber and the Malta Hotels and Restau- rants Association. It is also a partner of the Enterprise Europe Network. Maltese business delegation participates in the European Parliament of Enterprises APS Bank was present at this year's Mal- ta Book Festival once again, to support the launch of Leħen il-Malti (Għadd 42). e Bank proudly sponsored this annual publication curated by the vol- untary organisation Għaqda tal-Malti – Universita' ("GħMu"). Leħen il-Malti (Għadd 42). e book presents a collection of writ- ings by diverse authors, selected from submissions following an open call. It serves as a showcase of contemporary Maltese literature, encompassing in- triguing studies of a linguistic nature, and highlighting the versatility and rich- ness of the Maltese language. In addition to supporting Leħen il-Mal- ti (Għadd 42), APS Bank also lent its sup- port by providing the necessary materi- als for the setup of the Kamra Sensorja, an inclusive and sensory-friendly room, collaboratively organised by the Inspire Foundation and the National Book Council. is initiative was created to enhance accessibility and create oppor- tunities for children and individuals on the autism spectrum and/or with senso- ry challenges during the Festival. Jeremy Vassallo, CSR Manager at APS Bank, said, "We are privileged to extend our support to this publication once again. e literary contents featured not only promote the beauty of Maltese lit- erature and language but also celebrate various literary forms, including poems, prose, academic studies, and translations by different authors. Additionally, we are proud to have contributed to the cre- ation of an inclusive space at the Malta Book Festival through the Kamra Sen- sorja initiative."