Prime Minister addresses the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Türkiye
“As climate change and extreme weather accelerate, Malta will continue to strengthen its energy security by upgrading the grid and investing further in renewable energy, including offshore technology projects and potentially floating solar photovoltaic systems. These measures will strengthen climate resilience and improve access to cleaner energy.”
Prime Minister Robert Abela made these remarks while addressing the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye.
Speaking before dozens of international leaders, Abela said climate resilience must remain central to government policy. He pledged that in 2027 Malta would continue developing its National Climate Resilience Plan, with measures across 10 sectors considered vulnerable.
“These include critical infrastructure such as energy, water, health, transport and food security. We need to prepare effectively for this reality with measures tailored to each sector,” he said.
In his speech, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Malta’s commitment to meeting the targets of the Paris Agreement and contributing to ambitious collective efforts to reduce the impacts of climate change.
“In Malta, too, the government is taking several initiatives to help families and businesses through this transition,” Abela said.
He cited several examples, including investment in shore-to-ship power to make the maritime economy more sustainable.
Abela said Malta also speaks up internationally for countries affected by rising sea levels. He said the government would continue to prioritise assistance to small island states that share Malta’s geographical circumstances and climate challenges.
“Malta is calling for climate finance that is accessible to the most vulnerable states,” Abela said.
The Prime Minister recalled that a Maltese initiative in 1988 had identified climate change as a common challenge for humanity.
“Nearly 40 years later, I urge us to continue in this direction at COP31 and show that multilateralism is the best tool we have to combat this threat. Let us give our peoples what they deserve.”
“Let us work together to safeguard the present and the future,” he concluded.
The Office of the Prime Minister said the conference took place against the backdrop of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which had destabilised energy markets, and intensifying climate-related phenomena, including record heatwaves.
Photo credit — Office of the Prime Minister (OPM).
