The Nationalist Party on Thursday welcomed the approval of amendments PN Leader Bernard Grech proposed during today's European People's Party (EPP) Summit in Brussels. These proposals ensure that Malta's principle of neutrality remains respected in European discussions on security and defence, a PN statement said.

During the summit, leaders of EPP member parties were asked to approve a joint declaration aimed at strengthening the continent's security while considering the diverse realities of each country. Every decision must ultimately contribute to peace in the region.

In this context, Grech intervened on behalf of the Partit Nazzjonalista to advocate for safeguards in Malta's interest. He emphasised that while Europe should enhance its defence capabilities through increased investment, it is equally necessary to respect the realities and interests of neutral countries, including Malta. The amendments put forward by the Partit Nazzjonalista Leader were accepted and incorporated into the final joint declaration of the Summit, which will now be presented at the European Council meeting.

The PN said it aligns with the EPP's vision for a stronger European defence strategy, including the reinforcement of defence capabilities and industrial cooperation, to ensure that Europe can defend itself. At the same time, the Partit Nazzjonalista believes that this capacity must be built on a strategy that respects the diversity of EU Member States, including the neutral status of certain countries.

Bernard Grech reiterated that any step towards further integration in defence-related areas must fully respect the position of each Member State, including those that maintain neutrality. Thanks to this intervention and productive dialogue with EPP leaders, the proposed amendments by the Partit Nazzjonalista Leader were approved, ensuring that Malta's neutrality continues to be safeguarded in the field of defence.

The PN said it reaffirms that Malta should maintain an active role in European security initiatives, while always respecting its neutrality. At today's Summit, the EPP demonstrated that it is a space where the different realities of each country are recognised, and where Malta's role and voice in European politics are strong and respected.

Bernard Grech also insisted that in any agreement reached, the right of each Member State to veto must continue to be upheld, even in the area of security. He stressed that the veto exists to ensure that each Member State can defend its own domestic realities.

The PN said it will continue to defend Malta's interests at the European level, ensuring that our neutrality remains respected while contributing to the peace and security of the continent.

During discussions in Brussels, in addition to the situation regarding Ukraine and European security, competitiveness was also addressed. The Partit Nazzjonalista Leader once again stressed the need for the EU to continue tackling other pressing issues affecting its citizens, including the cost-of-living crisis, which is severely impacting the Maltese and Gozitan people.

Among the bilateral meetings held by the PN Leader, an important meeting took place with the Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani.

For this Summit, the Partit Nazzjonalista Leader was accompanied by PN International Secretary Beppe Galea.