Maltese MPs Highlight Neutrality, Mediterranean Security and Support for Ukraine at EU Conference
Maltese parliamentarians John Grech and Beppe Fenech Adami participated in the Inter-Parliamentary Conference on the Common Foreign and Security Policy and the Common Security and Defence Policy (CFSP/CSDP), held in Dublin, Ireland, from 4 to 6 November 2026.
The conference brought together Members of the European Parliament and representatives of national parliaments to discuss major foreign policy, security and defence challenges facing the European Union.
Organised by the Houses of the Oireachtas as part of the parliamentary dimension of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the event provided a platform for exchanging views on European security priorities and the EU's response to emerging geopolitical challenges.
European Security and Defence Priorities
Discussions focused on four principal themes: the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy and Common Security and Defence Policy, Russia's war against Ukraine, developments in the Middle East, and the protection of European democracies against hybrid threats.
The opening session examined efforts to strengthen European defence readiness, develop military capabilities and improve cooperation with international partners.
Participants also discussed the EU Strategic Compass, the White Paper on the Future of European Defence and the Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030, alongside the need to maintain adequate resources for the Union's external action.
John Grech Emphasises Malta's Neutrality and Mediterranean Security
Addressing the first session, John Grech stressed that a stronger European foreign and security policy should be founded on unity, diplomacy, dialogue and respect for the different security traditions of EU member states.
Referring to Malta's constitutional neutrality, Grech said neutrality should not be interpreted as passivity in the face of aggression or threats to security and democracy.
He called for greater European self-reliance in cybersecurity, maritime security and the protection of critical infrastructure, while ensuring that defence initiatives respect national constitutional obligations.
Grech also urged the EU to maintain a strong focus on security challenges in the wider Mediterranean region, including irregular migration, climate change, water and food security, and conflicts in the Middle East.
He reaffirmed Malta's commitment to international law, diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Beppe Fenech Adami Condemns Russia's Invasion of Ukraine
During the session on Ukraine, Beppe Fenech Adami condemned Russia's invasion of a sovereign and independent country, describing it as a violation of international law and the principles underpinning the international order.
He warned against allowing military power to determine national borders or treating sovereignty and the rules-based international order as negotiable.
Fenech Adami called for a united and sustained European response in support of Ukraine's right to defend its territorial integrity, together with accountability for violations of international law.
He emphasised that Europe's commitment to democracy, freedom, sovereignty and the rule of law must be demonstrated through concrete action.
Ukraine and the Middle East
The conference examined the continuing war in Ukraine, including European military, financial and humanitarian assistance, diplomatic efforts towards a just and lasting peace, and Ukraine's progress towards EU membership.
A separate session addressed developments in the Middle East, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza, regional security challenges, respect for international law and the EU's diplomatic and crisis-management responsibilities.
Protecting Democracy Against Hybrid Threats
The final session focused on protecting European democracies against cyberattacks, disinformation, foreign interference and threats to critical infrastructure.
Participants discussed ways to strengthen preparedness, cybersecurity and societal resilience, as well as cooperation between public authorities, security institutions and private operators.
Strengthening Parliamentary Cooperation
The conference formed part of the continuing dialogue between national parliaments and the European Parliament on the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy and Common Security and Defence Policy.
It provided an opportunity for parliamentarians to exchange perspectives on European security, international cooperation and democratic accountability.
Source: House of Representatives, Malta.
Photos: HoR.
