Prime Minister Robert Abela said that all those who are responsible for the war in Ukraine should be held accountable, as there is “no justice without accountability.”

Abela was speaking at the Council of Europe summit in Iceland.

Abela noted how for 447 days, the people of Ukraine “have been under direct attack and at the receiving end of the most serious crimes under international law.”

He pointed out how necessary this conference was to seek solutions, reunite, and pursue peace through justice and international cooperation.

“That is why we need to continue supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes to ensure that all those responsible are held accountable, and the Victims’ rights to truth, justice and reparations are realized.”

Abela also mentioned how the issues of “climate change”, “migration”, and “democratic backsliding” needed to be addressed.

With regard to migration, he said: “We must strengthen our fight against migrant trafficking and smuggling and increase our support to frontline states as well as countries of origin and transit.”

“The rise of the anti-gender movement is another worrying challenge for which we must double our efforts to counter its harmful rhetoric; and prioritize gender equality in all our work and at all levels.”

When speaking about human rights, he praised the Council of Europe for being pivotal in setting solid standards for human rights.

“As a beating heart is central to sustaining life, so is the Convention system to the Council’s protection of human rights”