Prime Minister Robert Abela welcomed European Council President António Costa to the Auberge de Castille for talks on a number of key priorities on the European agenda. This visit is part of President Costa’s tour of the capital to discuss the European Council’s agenda for the coming months, including the European Union’s long-term budget, competitiveness, migration, European Union enlargement, Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East.
Following a formal meeting, Prime Minister Robert Abela and President António Costa addressed the media.
Dr Abela explained that a central part of the talks was on the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034. He maintained that Malta is entering these negotiations with a constructive attitude, while recognising the need for further investment in security, competitiveness and resilience.
“The future European budget must be fair, balanced and credible. It must uphold solidarity, reflect the different realities of the Member States and ensure that European investment reaches citizens across the Union,” said the Prime Minister.
He reiterated the importance of Cohesion Policy for Malta, not only as a tool of solidarity but also as a policy in favour of competitiveness, infrastructure, skills, innovation and connectivity. The Prime Minister also reiterated Malta’s consistent position that it cannot support the introduction of taxation at the European Union level, while remaining ready to discuss fair and proportionate options for the financing of the European budget.
Regarding competitiveness, the Prime Minister said that Malta supports an increasingly strong Single Market, more investment and innovation and less bureaucracy. He stressed, however, that the realities of small and island Member States, such as our country, must be reflected in European decisions.
“It is unacceptable that Maltese citizens and businesses pay more or have less choice simply because they live and operate from an island Member State. A fair Single Market must take these realities seriously,” said Dr Abela.
Regarding migration, both sides discussed the need for effective border management, practical solidarity, credible return, action against smuggling networks and stronger partnerships with countries of origin and transit.
On the Middle East, Dr Abela reiterated that Malta’s immediate priority remains protection and humanitarian assistance and full respect for international law. Malta continues to believe that the Two-State Solution is the only viable basis for a just and lasting peace. On Iran, the Prime Minister emphasised the need for de-escalation, diplomacy and the protection of freedom of navigation.
On Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the Prime Minister reiterated Malta’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and international law, while underlining the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.
Finally, the Prime Minister affirmed Malta’s support for a European Union enlargement process that remains credible and based on merit.
Dr Abela thanked President Costa for his balanced and pragmatic leadership and reiterated that Malta will continue to work for European leadership that is inclusive, concrete and focused on results that make a difference in the lives of all citizens.
Photos: DOI/OPM
