Malta advocates for EU enlargement and budget protections

Malta has reaffirmed its support for European Union enlargement during the MED9 conference in Croatia. Foreign Minister Chris Fearne emphasized that enlargement can enhance regional stability and prosperity, provided that candidate countries, particularly in the Western Balkans, meet necessary reform requirements and EU standards. Montenegro was noted as making significant progress in its accession negotiations.

Separately, Prime Minister Robert Abela addressed the upcoming negotiations for the EU’s 2028-2034 long-term budget. While noting positive elements in the current proposal, Abela stressed that Malta must protect funding for cohesion policy, agriculture, and fisheries. He indicated that the government will maintain its ‘red lines’ during the lengthy negotiation process, which is expected to reach a final agreement in December.