PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTRY FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TOURISM

“Our hard-earned unity is key to ensuring our credibility in the international sphere, and all of us are responsible for preserving that" – Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg

• Malta Supports the call for global peace, human rights, and regional stability

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, reaffirmed Malta's unwavering commitment to global peace, human rights, and regional stability at the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) held today in Brussels. The meeting, chaired by the new High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, addressed critical geopolitical challenges and Europe's evolving role in international diplomacy.

Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg urged the Council to prioritise unity and efficiency in its operations, emphasising that collective strength remains Europe's most valuable asset. “Our hard-earned unity is key to ensuring our credibility in the international sphere, and all of us are responsible for preserving that," he stated.

Highlighting the importance of robust alliances, Ian Borg called for partnerships founded on mutual respect and underscored the need to uphold the international rules-based order.

Malta reaffirmed its steadfast support for Ukraine, condemning the ongoing violence and defending the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Deputy Prime Minister advocated for a comprehensive and just peace process in line with the UN Charter, while stressing Europe's responsibility to address the humanitarian crisis during Ukraine's challenging winter months.

On sanctions, Malta called for a balanced approach to safeguard essential industries while maintaining pressure on aggressors.

In response to escalating anti-democratic measures in Georgia, Malta expressed deep concern over violence against peaceful protesters and called for de-escalation, increased support for civil society, and greater engagement with democratic actors in the region. Malta also underscored the importance of keeping channels of communication open.

Addressing the Middle East, the Deputy Prime Minister condemned the worsening humanitarian crisis and called for an immediate ceasefire, the protection of civilians, and the release of all hostages in Gaza. He reaffirmed Malta's unwavering support for the Two-State Solution, describing it as “the only peaceful and just solution to the conflict." On Syria, Deputy Prime Minister Borg called on all stakeholders to engage in an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned process in the spirit of the relevant UN Security Council Resolution.

Malta's dedication to advancing peace was further evidenced by its endorsement of Cyprus's bid for the OSCE Chair in 2027.