Minister for Home Affairs and National Security Carmelo Abela today participated in the Informal Justice and Home Affairs council in Riga Latvia, where EU Home Affairs ministers discussed measures aimed at further enhancing the fight against terrorism and the phenomenon of foreign fighters. Minister Abela emphasized the need for more information exchange between Member States and the better use of existing tools, as well as a mechanism for rapidly tracing firearms.

He also referred to the recent terrorist attack that occurred at the Corinthia Hotel in Tripoli, Libya, and highlighted the need for an integrated approach to counter terrorism. The minister stated that instability in the Mediterranean threatens European security. As regards the current discussion on the Schengen Code, the minister held that Malta was open to discuss necessary actions but no rushed decision should be taken. 

Over lunch, ministers discussed migration flows particularly in view of the challenges posed by the emerging trend of smugglers using larger vessels such as ships to transport migrants.  Minister Abela emphasized Malta's role on the issue of irregular migration starting from search and rescue and stressed the need for EU Member States to work together on this issue not least in the return of irregular migrants. He also underlined the need for relocation of beneficiaries of protection. 

A joint statement underlining the united determination of the ministers to combat terrorism has been adopted at the end of the Home Affairs session of the Informal Justice and Home Affairs Council. Ministers agreed to intensify the implementation of already agreed measures, while also identifying additional measures that would contribute to the fight against terrorism.