Prime Minister Robert Abela and European Council President António Costa discussed the EU’s long-term budget, competitiveness, migration, Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East during talks in Malta on Thursday.

Costa met Abela at the Auberge de Castille as part of a tour of the capital ahead of discussions on the European Council’s agenda for the coming months.

Speaking to the media following the meeting, Abela said the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034 was a central issue in the talks, stressing that Malta would approach the negotiations constructively while seeking further investment in security, competitiveness and resilience.

“The future European budget must be fair, balanced and credible,” Abela said, adding that it should uphold solidarity and reflect the different realities of EU member states.

He reiterated Malta’s support for Cohesion Policy, arguing that it should continue to support competitiveness, infrastructure, skills, innovation and connectivity.

Abela also maintained Malta’s opposition to taxation at EU level, while saying the country remained willing to discuss fair and proportionate options for financing the European budget.

On competitiveness, Abela said Malta supported strengthening the Single Market through greater investment and innovation and less bureaucracy.

He stressed that EU decisions must take into account the particular circumstances of small and island member states.

“It is unacceptable that Maltese citizens and businesses pay more or have less choice simply because they live and operate from an island Member State,” Abela said.

Migration was also discussed, with both sides highlighting the need for effective border management, practical solidarity, credible returns, action against trafficking networks and stronger partnerships with countries of origin and transit.

Turning to the Middle East, Abela said Malta’s immediate priority remained protection and humanitarian assistance, alongside full respect for international law.

He reiterated Malta’s position that a two-state solution remains the only viable basis for a just and lasting peace.

On Iran, Abela called for de-escalation and diplomacy, while stressing the importance of protecting freedom of navigation.

Regarding Russia’s war against Ukraine, Abela reiterated Malta’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and for international law, while emphasising the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Malta’s support for EU enlargement, saying the process should remain credible and based on merit.