DPM Ian Borg Joins EU Foreign Ministers In meeting With Lebanon’s Prime Minister

Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg took part in a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg, where discussions included an exchange with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. During the meeting, Malta reiterated its support for Lebanon and its people as they work towards stability and security despite facing the consequences of a conflict they did not initiate.

The meeting formed part of the April session of the Council and brought together EU foreign ministers and Lebanese representatives to assess the regional situation. Borg welcomed the temporary ceasefire and ongoing negotiations involving Israel, Lebanon and the United States. However, he stressed that the continued harm to civilians is unacceptable and warned that renewed violence risks undermining Lebanon’s fragile progress and reform efforts.

Malta reaffirmed its backing for efforts to restore full state authority in Lebanon, including strengthening state institutions and ensuring control over the use of force in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. Borg emphasised that meaningful dialogue remains essential to de-escalation and long term stability, noting that decisions taken in the coming period will have significant implications for both Lebanon and the wider region.

He also raised concern for the safety of peacekeepers, expressing solidarity with personnel serving under UNIFIL following a recent fatal incident in southern Lebanon. Their role, he said, remains critical in maintaining stability along the border.

The Council also addressed wider international issues, including developments in Iran and the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in attendance. Borg called for continued pressure on Russia to end its aggression and urged swift agreement on EU support measures for Ukraine, including financial assistance and progress in the enlargement process. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation on cyber and hybrid threats.

On maritime security, Borg referred to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, urging sustained diplomatic engagement to safeguard freedom of navigation. He noted support for coordinated Gulf responses and reaffirmed Malta’s backing for international efforts through recent resolutions at the United Nations and related bodies.

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