Prime Minister Robert Abela participated in the European Council Summit, held yesterday and today in Brussels and which had on its agenda COVID-19, economic recovery, immigration and external relations, including with the Turkey and Russia.
During this summit, European leaders were also around the table along with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
On COVID-19, leaders discussed in particular the vaccine certificate. The Prime Minister noted the improvement in the epidemiological situation while stressing the importance of ensuring that vaccine production continues to guarantee an adequate supply. Against this background, he spoke in favor of the EU Digital Certificate, which will be an important tool that will lead to countries such as Malta continuing to strengthen the economy with tourism. Therefore, said the Prime Minister, our country is looking forward to its implementation so that citizens regain their rights of free movement. Malta is undergoing the necessary preparations to operate this certificate.
The European Council also held an exchange on irregular immigration from the external dimension, in particular the work that needs to be done with countries of origin and transit, such as Libya. During this discussion the Prime Minister Robert Abela explained that Malta believes that irregular immigration is not a challenge for Europe alone and that our country was from the very beginning stressing the need to help transit countries to strengthen control of their borders. Malta’s position has always been that these countries of transit should be given the assistance and means to look after their borders. This is in order to control human traffickers and criminals in order to reduce the loss of life in the Mediterranean. Dr Abela said that the European Union needed to move from words and statements to concrete work.
The relationship with Libya was also discussed during the discussion with the Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres during which the Prime Minister among others stressed the importance of implementing the ceasefire agreement and -support to the Libyan authorities pending elections. Malta stated that the aspiration of a stable and secure Libya is not only a Maltese or Libyan aspiration but should be a goal in Europe and globally.
European leaders also discussed external relations with Turkey, Russia and Belarus – discussions during which the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the European Union working to continue the dialogue.
Along with 15 other leaders of European Union countries, Prime Minister Robert Abela signed a letter addressed to the presidents of the European institutions on the occasion of a Pride Day to be celebrated on 28 June – a letter in which Malta committed itself to further strengthening its commitment to continue defending the rights of LGBTIQ + people with a view to ensuring that future generations live in an environment of tolerance and equality.
Photos: OPM
