ROME (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The UniVerde Foundation continues its commitment to contributing to the achievement of Goal 6 of the 2030 Agenda, which focuses on the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Following the multimedia photographic exhibition “Water, Biodiversity, and Landscape: A Journey Through Italy’s Protected Areas” — promoted in collaboration with the UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP) and supported by the One Water Italia Committee, and inaugurated in Rome by the Minister of Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, during the Euro-Mediterranean One Water Forum—the Foundation’s efforts have moved to Malta. There, as part of the “Regional Meeting on Sustainable Desalination” (held on November 3–4 and organized by the United Nations Environment Programme’s Mediterranean Action Plan, UNEP/MAP), the UniVerde Foundation hosted a session titled “Innovative Desalination Technologies for Emergency Situations and Smaller Islands”, which featured the participation of Valentina Setta, Ambassador of Italy to Malta.

Having been elected as a member of the Mediterranean Commission on Sustainable Development under UNEP/MAP, the UniVerde Foundation aims to reinvigorate dialogue among Mediterranean basin countries regarding the needs of island communities and populations vulnerable to water crises. The focus is on archipelagos and smaller islands—territories characterized by particularly fragile ecosystems—where the necessity of ensuring a water supply for the population (including during the peak of summer tourism) must be balanced with the protection of the marine environment, biodiversity, and the landscape. The discussion examined solutions suitable for communities with small resident populations that experience sharp seasonal spikes in water demand. It evaluated the role of innovative technologies and mobile seawater desalination systems, considering factors such as costs, environmental impacts, and the ability to respond promptly to water needs.

The proceedings opened with remarks from Atila Uras, Senior Technical Officer at UNEP/MAP, who stated: “Water scarcity is becoming one of the most critical challenges for the Mediterranean. Desalination is evolving from a supplementary or emergency water supply option into a structural component of water security and climate change adaptation strategies. However, the expansion of freshwater production must not come at the expense of the marine environment. Our goal is to ensure that desalination contributes to water security while remaining ecologically sustainable and consistent with the commitments set out in the Barcelona Convention. The challenge is not merely to produce more freshwater, but to ensure reliable and efficient water supplies while protecting the marine ecosystems upon which our communities depend.” Alfonso Pecoraro Scanio (President of the UniVerde Foundation, former Minister of Agriculture and the Environment): “The challenge of sustainable desalination holds a dual value: on one hand, the protection of the Mediterranean Sea—a basin extraordinarily rich in biodiversity yet extremely delicate, and a true hotspot for climate change; on the other, the guarantee of every citizen’s fundamental right to quality drinking water.

This commitment aligns with the United Nations 2030 Agenda—specifically Goal 6, which focuses on access to and the sustainable management of water and sanitation, and Goal 14, which aims for the conservation and responsible use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. In this context, the UniVerde Foundation is dedicated to supporting research and innovation—including by promoting ‘Made in Italy’ solutions—that can render new desalination technologies more environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable. A virtuous example is the mobile marine desalination unit installed on a dedicated vessel; this solution is highly regarded by the scientific community for its ability to disperse brine in deep waters—ensuring high dilution and minimal impact, thanks to the movement of the ship’s propellers while underway. Safeguarding smaller islands and archipelagos remains the core objective of this sustainable approach, as it avoids the need for fixed plants, which lead to land consumption, landscape alteration, and energy waste—and, particularly in protected areas, pose a serious threat to habitats and biodiversity”.

This was followed by an institutional address from: Valentina Setta (Ambassador of Italy to Malta): “Water security represents one of the crucial challenges for the future of the Mediterranean. For island nations like Malta, sustainable desalination is not merely a technological option, but an essential component of resilience and sustainable development”.

– photo UniVerde Foundation –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta is set to strengthen its air connections with other continents, with Qatar Airways confirming its return to the island in March 2027 and negotiations underway to reinstate direct flights to New York, Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced.

Speaking in Parliament, Abela said the developments would improve Malta’s international connectivity and provide passengers with greater access to destinations across the globe.

Qatar Airways’ return will reconnect Malta to its extensive international network through its Doha hub, offering onward connections to destinations including Australia, Japan, China, India and the Philippines.

The airline previously operated four weekly flights between Malta and Doha before the route was affected by disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East in 2026.

Meanwhile, negotiations are ongoing with Delta Air Lines to bring back direct flights between Malta and New York’s JFK Airport in 2027.

Delta launched the route in June 2026, operating three weekly flights. Government figures showed an average seat occupancy rate of 84% up to 21 September.

Abela had also met Delta Air Lines Vice President Scott Jordan in New York in September to discuss extending the service into 2027. However, Delta has yet to officially confirm whether the route will return next year.

– photo MTA –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LONDON (ENGLAND) (ITALPRESS) – The day after parting ways with Nuno Espirito Santo, West Ham has announced its new manager: Scott Parker. The 46-year-old, who played as a midfielder for the Hammers between 2007 and 2011, is a specialist in securing promotions. Throughout his career, he has successfully guided teams from the Championship to the Premier League: Fulham (2020), Bournemouth (2022), and Burnley (2025). Parker—who terminated his contract with the Clarets last April following their relegation, which was confirmed with four matches left to play—will now look to turn things around for West Ham, a side currently reeling from two consecutive defeats and having slipped to eighth place in the English second tier.

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

MADRID (SPAIN) (ITALPRESS) – A “Galáctico” of tennis joins the club of “Galácticos.” Rafa Nadal is set to join the Board of Directors of Real Madrid. According to the newspaper “Marca,” the club will present the proposal to its members during the assembly on November 21, and, barring any unforeseen circumstances, Nadal’s appointment to the board will be formalized. The announcement came directly from the club, which will convene an extraordinary general assembly to ratify the inclusion of the tennis legend. “Rafael Nadal, already an honorary member of Real Madrid, is one of the greatest legends in the history of sport, as well as one of the most admired and globally recognized Spanish athletes,” the Board of Directors stated. “For Real Madrid and the entire ‘Madridista’ community, it is a source of immense pride that a figure of his caliber—both as an athlete and as an individual, a true icon of Spanish and global sport—should join our Board of Directors, contributing from that position to the present and future of our club.” In addition to listing his extensive collection of titles, Real Madrid emphasized: “He represents much more than just his achievements: his talent, his constant pursuit of improvement, his capacity for sacrifice, his competitive spirit, his humility, his respect for opponents and teammates, and his commitment to others make him an exemplary figure, both on and off the court.”

Rafa Nadal thanked Real Madrid via social media: “I would like to thank President Florentino Pérez and the Board of Directors for the invitation to join the Real Madrid Board. I have accepted this proposal with great enthusiasm, a desire to learn, and a commitment to contribute in every way I can.”

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

CAIRO (EGYPT) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with General Mohamed Abdel Fattah Abu Bakr, Chairman of the Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI), to review the organization’s development strategy and the enhancement of its production and technological capabilities across both the civil and military sectors.

Abu Bakr outlined the progress made in introducing advanced technologies, opening new export markets, and implementing development projects in various African countries, in line with the “Egypt Vision 2030” framework. He also highlighted the AOI’s contribution to strategic projects in the fields of public transport, freight, and light mobility, as well as efforts to expand partnerships with the private sector and international companies.

Al-Sisi emphasized the need to deepen local production, facilitate technology transfer, attract investment, support the national industrial sector, and boost exports. Finally, the President set the goal of transforming the AOI into a platform for industrial integration—one capable of leveraging production capacities, private-sector expertise, and international partnerships to strengthen Egypt’s competitiveness.

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

MILAN (ITALPRESS/MNA) – From November 8 to 11, 2026, the Tripoli International Fair will host the ninth edition of the “Libya Construction Expo,” one of the most significant events for the construction, infrastructure, and building technology sector in the North African nation. According to the organizers, ADD International Group, this year’s event serves as a strategic platform to support Libya’s reconstruction and development plans, attract international manufacturers, and foster partnerships between local and global industry players.

The exhibition aims to connect local agents and distributors with international companies, while offering a unique opportunity to explore the dynamics of the Libyan market and establish long-lasting business relationships. The 2026 edition will feature over 150 companies from Tunisia, Egypt, Turkey, Italy, and China, showcasing a wide array of materials, machinery, and technological solutions. Of particular note is the participation of an official Italian delegation, coordinated by the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), which will include 17 companies.

The expo will be organized into key sectors, ranging from water and sanitation technologies to renewable energy, alarm systems, elevators, heavy machinery, marble flooring, construction materials, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, and interior/exterior finishes.

Projections indicate more than 200 exhibitors, over 10,000 expected visitors, an exhibition area exceeding 5,000 square meters, and the attendance of more than 500 prominent figures, including government representatives and key decision-makers in the sector.

Alongside the main exhibition, the schedule includes a variety of side events. Among these, the Architecture & Design Forum 2026—now in its third edition—and the Future Schools Expo stand out; both will be held under the official patronage of the Agency for the Development and Promotion of Administrative Centers (ODAC). Additionally, specialized exhibitions are planned, including the “Libya Water-tech Expo,” the “Libya HVAC Expo” (focused on climate control systems), and “Electro Libya” (dedicated to the electrical sector), all of which will feature participation from major international brands.

The official inauguration of the event will be attended by top-level institutional figures, including the Prime Minister, government ministers, and accredited ambassadors—a testament to the strategic importance this trade fair holds for the country’s future.

The organizers further emphasized that the Libya Construction Expo serves as a “barometer” for the Libyan construction market, offering international companies a direct opportunity to engage with project decision-makers and potential local partners.

-Photo: IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

BARCELONA (SPAIN) (ITALPRESS) – “A minor injury to the right hamstring.” This is the diagnosis following medical examinations undergone by Barcelona midfielder Rodri, who felt muscle discomfort during yesterday’s Champions League match against Aston Villa (a 3-0 win for the Catalan side), leading to his substitution at halftime.

The club has not committed to a specific recovery timeline, stating only that the player “will not be available for next Sunday’s match against Atletico Madrid” and that his return “will depend on how the injury progresses.”

According to the Catalan press, he is expected to be sidelined for a month, which would rule him out of the match against Atletico Madrid, his international commitments with Spain, and almost certainly the game against Villarreal on November 22, as well as the trip to Baku for the Champions League fixture against Sabah.

Furthermore, he will miss matches against Deportivo and Celta. According to the newspaper “Sport,” he is expected to return in time for the Champions League clash against his former club, Manchester City.

-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LYON (FRANCE) (ITALPRESS) – After nearly two years, Paulo Fonseca’s tenure as manager of Lyon has come to an end. The club (OL) announced the departure of the 53-year-old Portuguese coach, who had been appointed on January 31, 2025—replacing Sage—under a contract originally set to expire next June.

Fonseca has decided to accept an offer from Sporting Lisbon to replace the dismissed Rui Borges, with Lyon set to receive €5 million in compensation. “The board has acknowledged Paulo Fonseca’s decision and has immediately begun the process of identifying his successor,” the French club stated.

“The search will focus on a candidate capable of maintaining continuity with the current sporting project, upholding the same principles and level of rigor established over the past few months.” In the interim, Fonseca’s assistant, Jorge Maciel, will take charge of the team, overseeing tomorrow’s Europa League away match against Real Sociedad, followed by Sunday’s league fixture away to Brest. Lyon currently sits third in Ligue 1 with 17 points after 9 matches.

-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Prime Minister Robert Abela has described Malta’s 2027 budget as the “only progressive budget in Europe”, defending the government’s economic measures and its decision to maintain subsidies on fuel and electricity.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday evening, Abela highlighted several measures announced during last week’s budget speech by Finance Minister, including a €1,000 annual “super bonus” for workers, pension increases and tax reductions for parents.

The Prime Minister argued that the government had successfully maintained economic stability despite international uncertainty, ongoing wars and rising oil prices.

He said keeping fuel and electricity prices stable had helped protect households while putting more money into people’s pockets through tax cuts and other financial incentives.

Abela also defended the continuation of energy subsidies, arguing that the measure would make the budget one of the best in the European Union if considered on its own.

He maintained that the government had managed to pursue a progressive economic agenda while keeping the budget deficit below three per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

Malta’s debt-to-GDP ratio currently stands at 47 per cent, according to the figures cited by the Prime Minister.

However, Abela’s claims come alongside criticism of new fees that third-country nationals will face from the coming year, despite the government’s emphasis on the budget’s progressive character.

-Photo DOI-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LONDON (ENGLAND) (ITALPRESS) – Martin Zubimendi is packing his bags. According to “TeamTalk,” the 27-year-old Spanish midfielder has reportedly decided to leave Arsenal when the transfer window reopens in January.

Real Madrid, Barcelona, ​​and Atletico Madrid are said to be interested in bringing him back to Spain, while Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are also monitoring the situation; in the Premier League, Chelsea could potentially be an option.

Having arrived in the summer of 2025 for £60 million, Zubimendi has fallen down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta this season—to the extent that he has yet to start a single Premier League match, with the manager opting for Bruno Guimaraes and Lewis-Skelly instead.

The Spaniard is seeking more playing time, but as things stand, the most likely scenario is that he will only be allowed to leave on loan.

-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews