Prime Minister Robert Abela told leaders at the MED9 Summit in Slovenia that the Mediterranean is not Europe’s periphery, but its engine of growth, calling for stronger regional cooperation in energy, connectivity, and skills to boost competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability across the continent.
In Portoro?, Slovenia, Abela attended the MED9 Summit alongside leaders of Mediterranean European Union member states, the President of the European Commission, and King Abdullah II of Jordan.
During the first meeting with the leaders, Abela spoke of the need to strengthen cooperation among Mediterranean countries so that Europe becomes more competitive, secure, and resilient, three areas he described as the foundations for Europe’s future.
“The Mediterranean is not the periphery of Europe but its main driver of competitiveness. In the Mediterranean region, energy costs and logistical challenges have a strong impact on the economy. Therefore, we must ensure that the benefits of the Single Market reach everyone while strengthening connectivity, trade, and skills,” Abela said.
He said that as a country, Malta believes that the Mediterranean Pact is an important step in this direction, because it recognises the potential of the region as a centre of growth and stability.
Abela said that energy and connectivity are at the heart of this vision.
“We began this dialogue in Malta two years ago, when we spoke about the Mediterranean as a centre for green energy. Today, we are here continuing that vision, strengthening links between Southern and Northern Europe while integrating island nations into the European grid,” Abela said, adding that competitiveness depends on people.
“The Mediterranean should be a space where skills and talent move safely and legally. We need more academic cooperation, training, and talent pathways in digital and green sectors, while also addressing the root causes of irregular migration,” Abela said.
He further spoke about the need for EU decisions on climate and energy to strengthen, not weaken, Europe’s competitiveness.
“We must be ambitious but also realistic, including in the fight against climate change, where we need to protect sectors that are crucial for the economy and competitiveness, such as the maritime sector. We must shield families from disproportionate financial burdens while giving businesses the certainty to invest in the future,” Abela said.
He continued that ultimately, what unites them is the goal of ensuring that Mediterranean countries, and Europe as a whole, attract quality jobs, strong businesses, and better lives for citizens.
“If we work together in energy, connectivity, and skills, the Mediterranean can be the engine of growth and stability for the entire European Union,” Abela said.
During a meeting attended by King Abdullah II of Jordan, discussions focused on peace in the Middle East and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Abela reiterated Malta’s position in favour of an immediate ceasefire and a two-state solution, while recognising Jordan’s crucial role as a partner for peace, stability, and humanitarian aid.