The mitigation of security threats and the contribution to a more stable global environment, are central to Malta's foreign policy. Nowadays, security threats can take different shapes and forms, perpetrated by state or non-state actors, while they may also be transnational in nature. Examples of such threats include terrorism, cyber terrorism, irregular migration and climate change.

The second of three Strategic Goals which underpin Malta's Foreign Policy Strategy, launched earlier this month for public consultation, revolves around Malta's role in the promotion of peace, security and dialogue. As a neutral nation, constantly advocating dialogue, Malta supports and works to strengthen a rules-based international system as the basis to secure peace for its citizens. This is the only viable response to the challenges all nation states face, and especially for a small state like ours.

Malta is party to numerous international agreements intended to ensure a peaceful world. This is also both an investment in, and an expectation of, mutual security relationships and an improvement in the ability to advance other foreign policy interests. In order to be vigilant and mitigate any threats, Malta requires to broaden and deepen its bilateral security cooperation, to advance collective security and defend the rules-based international order through contributions to global peace and security and disarmament initiatives. In fact, last year, Malta signed and ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW). Being among the original 50 state parties to the treaty when it entered into force on 22 January 2021, Malta continues to emphasise its unwavering commitment towards nuclear non-proliferation and towards achieving prosperity through peace.

For national prosperity and security, Malta needs peace and stability in its immediate neighbourhood, the Euro-Med region. Malta is an active partner in the region, contributing to the Libyan question and leading dialogue on irregular migration. On a European level, Malta is committed to the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), and supports efforts aimed at securing the borders and stabilising the EU's neighbourhood.

Even on an international level, Malta plays an active role through the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and the United Nations. In fact, to increase its effectiveness and contribution to the peace and security agenda, Malta has presented its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for a two-year mandate commencing on 1 January 2023. If elected, this would be the second time that Malta would serve on the UNSC, having first served in 1983-1984. The UNSC is the most important international body for the promotion of peace and security. This will be a crucial opportunity for Malta to contribute in no small way towards the achievement of peace and security, as Malta will be the voice for justice, moderation, understanding and tolerance.

Mr Cutajar is the Permanent Secretary for Foreign and European Affairs

Have your say! The Foreign Policy Strategy was launched for public consultation and is available online on konsultazzjoni.gov.mt  The consultation period closes on Wednesday 8 December 2021.