Prime Minister Robert Abela Meets With US Secretary Of State Anthony Blinken

Dec 5 2024

Maltese Prime Minister and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held a meeting at the Auberge Castle, where the two discussed several important matters.

The discussions mainly focused on the Middle East, Ukraine, Libya, and Transatlantic cooperation between neighbouring European countries such as Malta and the US.

Prime Minister Abela emphasised the importance of dialogue and collaboration in addressing ongoing conflicts.

He welcomed the ceasefire in Lebanon but reiterated Malta’s call for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation. Dr. Abela reaffirmed Malta’s support for a two-state solution as a path to stability and peace in the region.

Regarding Ukraine, the Prime Minister expressed concern over recent attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure. He stressed the need for a fair peace agreement that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty, in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Ahead of Malta hosting the OSCE Ministerial Council during its presidency of the organisation, Dr. Abela underlined the importance of stability in Libya and the continued international support needed for a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned representative process.

On Transatlantic relations, the Prime Minister highlighted the strong ties between the United States and the European Union, noting their vital role in ensuring stability and peace amid geopolitical challenges.

He also emphasised Malta’s relationship with the U.S., identifying opportunities for further collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, and education.

Accompanying the Prime Minister were key officials, including Principal Permanent Secretary Tony Sultana, Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for Foreign and Tourism Affairs Christopher Cutajar, and Head of Secretariat in the Office of the Prime Minister, Mark Mallia.

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Over 25 Maltese Nativity Cribs Exhibited In Brussels

Dec 5 2024

An exhibition featuring over 25 Maltese nativity cribs, including two large cribs showcasing scenes from Maltese towns and villages, has been launched at the European Parliament in Brussels.

The event marks the largest display of Maltese nativity cribs ever held outside Malta.

According to Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, the exhibition highlights a tradition passed down through generations.

He described it as an opportunity to promote Maltese cultural heritage internationally. The event is being hosted at the European Parliament, with thousands of visitors expected to view the display.

Member of the European Parliament Alex Agius Saliba, who collaborated on the project, emphasized the significance of showcasing Maltese culture and traditions in European institutions.

He noted that this exhibition follows a similar effort last year that featured Maltese feast traditions.

The cribs on display represent various towns and villages from Malta and Gozo, reflecting the cultural diversity of the islands.

The exhibition is organized by the Ministry for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government and MEP Alex Agius Saliba in partnership with the Ministry for Gozo and Planning.

The display will remain open to visitors at the European Parliament throughout this week.

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Photo Sources: Alex Agius Saliba, Owen Bonnici FB

Malta and Italy Strengthen Collaboration on Migration and Security

Dec 5 2024

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security, and Employment, Byron Camilleri, held a bilateral meeting with Italy’s Minister of the Interior, Matteo Piantedosi, in Rome.

The meeting reinforced the strong relationship between Malta and Italy, two countries facing shared challenges.

The ministers focused on irregular migration, emphasising the importance of collaboration to address its challenges.

They discussed combating human trafficking, reducing risky sea journeys, and strengthening cooperation in security and law enforcement. Both agreed on the need to work closely to tackle these issues effectively.

Discussions also highlighted Libya’s critical role in migration management. The ministers stressed the importance of supporting Libya to enhance its search-and-rescue resources, combat human traffickers, and improve border management.

They also called for greater EU-Libya cooperation, including efforts to return migrants to their countries of origin, reducing irregular migration routes and associated fatalities.

Minister Camilleri highlighted the value of such bilateral meetings, noting recent discussions with the Czech Republic as part of coordinated efforts for impactful policies. The meeting ended with a commitment to further collaboration for the benefit of citizens in both countries.

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Harry Potter Sword Replicas Break Japan’s Weapons Laws

Dec 5 2024

In Japan, replicas of Godric Gryffindor’s sword from the Harry Potter film series have been recalled for violating the country’s strict weapons law.

The full-sized replicas, measuring 86 cm (34 inches) and sold by Warner Bros. Studio Japan LLC for 30,000 yen ($200), were available from May 2023 to April 2024.

However, authorities determined in November that the replicas were sharp enough to be classified as actual swords under Japan’s Firearms and Swords Control Law, which mandates registration of such items unless they are non-sharpenable decorative or training tools.

More than 350 replicas were sold through the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo, the largest indoor Harry Potter attraction in the world, which opened in 2023.

The studio issued a recall notice, offering logistics and refunds to buyers. Violating Japan’s weapons law, which bans carrying knives over 6 cm, can result in up to two years of imprisonment.

Japan’s strict weapon regulations contribute to its low violence levels, though occasional incidents occur. For example, a 78-year-old man was arrested in 2022 for attacking his neighbour with a ceremonial samurai sword, and a 2017 Tokyo shrine attack involved a samurai sword and knives, leaving three dead.

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