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The Maltese Herald

Parliament debates Ukraine, Europe and Malta’s defence

—

by

Mark Camilleri
in ,

Yesterday, the Maltese Parliament debated Ukraine, Europe and Malta’s defence. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Ian Borg wasn’t present for the debate, and the government’s position was presented exclusively by the Prime Minister. Some Labour MPs asked some questions which we will cover in the next articles. You can listen to debate here.

Prime Minister Robert Abela reiterated that Malta’s position on the war in Ukraine has always been consistent in that Russia is the invading aggressor and Ukraine is the victim. However, the Prime Minister said that Malta was steadfast in not compromising its neutrality and would never provide any lethal aid.

The Prime Minister also criticised the ReArm programme saying that it should have been named differently. He also condemned the President of the European Parliament for supporting the programme, saying that Malta should not be part European defence expenditure initatives. The Prime Minister continued with the Labour Party’s rhetoric on defence by attacking the Opposition and even accusing the Nationalist Party of wanting Malta “to go to war”.

Opposition Leader Bernard Grech denied that the Nationalist Party was against neutrality, but said that peace in Europe won’t be obtained with rhetoric or by attacking the Opposition. He reiterated his support for a Europe that invests in defence implying that Malta should also do the same. Peace also comes by investing in the victim which in this case is Ukraine and the Opposition Leader added that Ukraine should go to peace talks in a strong position. The Opposition Leader also asked the Prime Minister whether he thinks that a defeated Ukraine is also a defeat for Europe. The Prime Minister did not reply to this question.

Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Beppe Fenech Adami reiterated that the Prime Minister voted in favour of the ReArm programme but is saying the opposite in Malta. The Prime Minister was also challenged on Malta’s security in case of an attack.

The Prime Minister responded by stating that the European Union has treaty obligations to assist Malta if it is attacked and that Malta would reciprocate for its EU partners but would never provide military aid.

 

 

 

 

Comments

7 responses to “Parliament debates Ukraine, Europe and Malta’s defence”

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    1. Bernard G Grech. avatar
      Bernard G Grech.

      After Sunday’s demonstration it is obvious that the only way is forward and the Prime Minister knows this. EXPECT A SNAP ELECTION !!.

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