The bilateral relations between Malta and Italy, the energy sector and the potential of the Mediterranean, the challenge of immigration and discussions at European Union level were the main themes discussed in meetings. that the Prime Minister Robert Abela had in Rome with the Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni.
In comments after the meetings in Rome, Prime Minister Abela stressed that the good cooperation between the two countries in many areas can continue to be strengthened. “As happened in the past, our cooperation can lead to opportunities that both countries will enjoy.”
At the forefront, the Prime Minister mentioned energy, borders and immigration, and reiterated that the progress, a result of today’s meetings, should continue with technical meetings with the aim of having agreements that cover these areas. The Prime Minister reiterated that the two countries share common interests in the region, particularly in the energy sector and therefore it is cooperation that can bring amazing results.
He reiterated that because of the war in Ukraine, energy has become a main point of discussion and explained how what is known as the “Piano Mattei”, launched by Prime Minister Meloni, is in line with Malta’s vision which she also believes in the importance of the cooperation between the European Union and North Africa. Here the Prime Minister mentioned an interconnection system with North Africa and the benefits of solar energy. “We have agreed with eight other countries that the Mediterranean has the potential to become the center of investment in renewable energy,” said the Prime Minister in reference to an agreement in MED9 that was reached in Malta recently.
The Prime Minister also referred to the second interconnector between Malta and Italy, and the implementation of this important project with European funds. Another theme that Prime Minister Robert Abela talked about was migration. “Human traffickers are abusing the desperation of so many people in the region, and as members of the European Union on the border, we are also victims of this abuse,” said the Prime Minister, who he reiterated that this is a challenge for all of Europe and not just countries like Malta and Italy. Here the Prime Minister talked about how one of the solutions remains the relationship with the transit countries where the relationship must be one of partnership that brings benefits to all sides. Here he praised an initiative that was taken with Tunisia and that was carried forward by the President of the European Commission with the involvement of Italy and the Netherlands.
“We need the same kind of relationship with countries like Libya, where there are so many opportunities,” said the Prime Minister. In relation to defense, themes such as cooperation in training and equipment were mentioned. The Prime Minister also referred to discussions at a European level with an emphasis on the Economic Governance Review, and the Multiannual Financial Framework, as well as to a discussion on the growth of the European Union.
“In order to continue our efforts with the aim of strengthening the cooperation between the member countries of the European Union from the Mediterranean, I will be hosting the MED9 summit in Malta in September, and I will look at ahead of welcoming Prime Minister Meloni to Malta,” said Prime Minister Abela.
In Rome, the Prime Minister was accompanied by the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg, the Minister for the Interior, Security, Reforms and Equality Byron Camilleri, the Ambassador of Malta for Italy Carmel Vassallo, and the Head of the Secretariat in the Office of the Prime Minister Glenn Micallef.
Photos: OPM, DOI
