Prime Minister Robert Abela has suggested that a European Commissioner for the Mediterranean be appointed.

Abela said that “great potential” exists in the Mediterranean and that this region should be given the importance it deserves.

Abela said this while attending a European Council meeting with other European leaders yesterday in Croatia, following an invitation by European Council President Charles Michel, to discuss the European Union’s Strategic Agenda for the period between 2024-2029.

During this meeting, Abela mentioned some of our country’s greatest topics of concern that he believes should be considered in this new upcoming strategy. Amongst these, he referenced the European Single Market, access to medicines, connectivity, and the Mediterranean.

In reference to the Single Market, the Prime Minister said that there are some instances where some countries, like Malta, are left disadvantaged near their contemporaries, especially in terms of access to medicines and connectivity. He said that until legislation is introduced to tackle this issue, impact assessments should be held that analyse the realities of all Member States, including Malta.

The Prime Minister also said that although the Maltese islands continue to bring in quality medicines at affordable prices, the European Union should address the challenges in regard to medicinal access so that we can truly have a Single Market for Pharmaceuticals.

Abela then brought up Malta’s dependence on maritime transport and aviation in order to remain connected with the rest of Europe. He called for the European Union to study what actions the Southern Neighbourhood is taking in relation to sectors that are crucial in retaining connectivity, so that together, European Member States can continue to fight climate change.

Abela ended by wishing for the conclusions from this meeting to lead to the preparation of a strategic direction that is based on reality, that is ambitious, and that provides clarity to all citizens, against the background of the many multidimensional challenges we are currently experiencing.

During this meeting in Croatia, European leaders also discussed some current affairs, including how the UN Security Council passed a resolution drawn up by Malta to lead to more humanitarian aid in Gaza. Abela stressed that Malta will continue to deliver a strong voice in favour of peace.

Prime Minister Robert Abela also had a bilateral meeting with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. Together, they continued to build on the discussions had during their bilateral meeting in Malta this past September.