Prime Minister Robert Abela has said that the transportation of goods and passengers must remain affordable for all EU member states.

He spoke while attending a European Council meeting in Brussels, together with other EU country leaders on Thursday.

The war in Ukraine, the economy, competitivity and the European Union market, as well as energy were discussed. 

The EU leaders also met with the UN Secretary General António Guterres, where they discussed common issues.

Abela, during this discussion, spoke about climate change and said that governments, private institutions and stakeholders should all unite to address this global challenge. He said that Malta is working on reforms in the transport, industry and energy systems, "where the government is assuring that less polluting options become more accessible and cheaper for individuals," a statement read.

On the issue of the Ukraine war, the EU affirmed that it will continue to assist Ukraine, even with regard to its reconstruction, the government statement said. Abela said that member states, together with strategic partners and financial institutions should help in the reconstruction process of Ukraine.

He said that Malta will continue to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine, while emphasising that anyone who is committing the crime of aggression should continue to be held responsible.

On the economy, competitivity and the European Union market, the leaders spoke about the move towards the ecological and digital transitions.

Prime Minister Abela said that there are member states, particularly those on the periphery of the EU, that are already at a disadvantage due to their insularity, and as such face additional challenges. He said that Malta depends on maritime and air connections to ensure connectivity with the rest of Europe and the world. He said that the transport of goods and passengers must remain affordable for all member states.

On energy, there was agreement to continue working to ensure security of supply at affordable prices, the government said. Abela said that Malta will continue to ensure stable energy prices, which it is doing through a subsidy that reached €1bn over last year and this year.