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“Everyone should have access to physical activity” – President George Vella

PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

President of Malta George Vella said that sport has the opportunity to break social and mental boundaries and instil a greater sense of collaboration in individuals.

Speaking at the opening ceremony for the European Region of Sport organised by the Kunsill Reġjonali Lvant, the President said that everyone should have access to physical activity, including the elderly.

President Vella said that, on behalf of the people of Malta, he is proud that Birkirkara, Għargħur, Gżira, Iklin, Imsida, Lija, Pembroke, Pietà, St Julian’s, Sliema, Swieqi and Ta’ Xbiex will be at the forefront in taking initiatives throughout this year to encourage residents to have a more active lifestyle and possibly serve as a model for other regions.

“I appeal to these localities to make use of this title in the widest possible way and not miss the opportunity to drive a model for national unity and dialogue between different entities and ages. It would be truly just and appropriate if we ensure that these opportunities are also open to foreigners living among us,” said President Vella.

In his speech, the President said that the localities forming the Eastern Region will be in a position to observe that infrastructure and local environment are essential for us as a people to develop an inclusive sports and health policy, and a policy that truly encourages and invites citizens to be more physically active. In this context, President Vella mentioned the work carried out by many sports and youth associations towards an active lifestyle who help these locations continue to be sports laboratories.

“Such initiatives shed light on the importance of an active lifestyle away from addictions and excessive consumption of food, alcohol or other substances, and above all a less sedentary lifestyle,” said President George Vella while calling for such initiatives to be open and attractive to everyone, regardless of the individual’s physical and mental abilities or political and religious beliefs.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, Opposition Spokesperson for Local Government and Public Administration, Darren Carabott, and President of the Eastern Regional Council, Anthony Chircop, addressed the opening ceremony of the European Region of Sport for 2023.

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