Over the past two days, Malta hosted the 9th meeting of the MED5.
Together, Malta, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, and Spain, have forged a common position – one that ensures that the MED5 voice is heard loud and clear, making the realities and challenges of migration in the Mediterranean impossible to ignore and addressed at the highest level of the European Union.
This MED5 meeting came at a pivotal moment – just weeks after the European Commission published its first annual report on asylum and migration, identifying Member States under migratory pressure. Minister Byron Camilleri, during a press statement noted that the fact that Malta is not on that list speaks volumes. “It is a clear and undeniable testament to the progress Malta has achieved and the effectiveness of this Government’s strategy in managing irregular migration by focusing on prevention and returns of irregular migrants who do not qualify for asylum. Over the past five years, we have not hesitated to make tough – but necessary – decisions, and the results are undeniable:
- Returns: Up to an average of 75% compared to irregular arrivals
- Arrivals: Reduced by 93% in the last 5 years, thanks to effective return policies for those not qualifying for protection.”
At today’s MED5 meeting, Member States reaffirmed their commitment to the full and successful implementation of the European Pact on Migration and Asylum, describing it as a pivotal opportunity to build a coherent, fair and resilient migration framework. The MED5 stressed that solidarity must move beyond words and deliver real, tangible results for countries under pressure.
The Minister highlighted that the external dimension cannot be overlooked. Stronger efforts on prevention and returns are essential pillars of a credible and effective migration policy. He also called for comprehensive, strategic partnerships with key third countries, built on mutual trust and support to transit countries like Libya, which face enormous challenges in securing borders and hosting large numbers of migrants who risk their lives on dangerous journeys.
Concluding the meeting, the Minister stated, “Our work is not finished. But today, MED5 stands stronger than ever – leading discussions, shaping solutions and defending the principles of solidarity and fair sharing of responsibility across the European Union.”
Photo: MHSE
