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Malta needs Reliable Connectivity & Affordable Energy, Says Abela At MED9 Summit

Malta needs Reliable Connectivity & Affordable Energy, Says Abela At MED9 Summit
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Prime Minister Robert Abela has called for the next European Budget to better reflect the permanent challenges faced by island states such as Malta, stressing that reliable connectivity, affordable energy and resilient infrastructure are essential for the country's economy.

Speaking at the MED9 Summit in Split, Croatia, Abela said the European Union's Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028 to 2034 should take geographical realities into account. He argued that decisions on future EU funding must reflect the needs of Mediterranean countries, describing the region as central to Europe's security, trade, energy and climate resilience.

The Prime Minister said new European priorities should complement existing policies, including cohesion funding, agriculture and fisheries, while ensuring every member state can contribute to the EU's competitiveness. He also reiterated Malta's opposition to EU-wide taxes, insisting that taxation should remain the responsibility of national governments and parliaments.

Migration also featured prominently during the discussions, with Abela calling for stronger cooperation with African countries and closer engagement with partners such as Libya on issues including migration, energy, climate change, security and investment.

Addressing energy, the Prime Minister said European policies should not place citizens or businesses at a disadvantage, reaffirming the Maltese Government's commitment to maintaining stable energy and fuel prices.

He added that the green transition should continue without undermining connectivity or competitiveness, particularly for island states, and stressed that measures such as the Emissions Trading Scheme should not unfairly impact Malta.

The summit concluded with the adoption of a joint declaration reflecting the leaders' shared positions. Abela reaffirmed Malta's commitment to the MED9 Group, describing the meeting as an important opportunity to strengthen the Mediterranean perspective ahead of key European discussions.

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