Abela, Costa discuss EU budget, migration and Ukraine in Malta
Prime Minister Robert Abela and European Council President António Costa discussed the EU’s long-term budget, competitiveness, migration, Ukraine and the Middle East during talks in Malta on Thursday.
Abela said Malta would take a constructive approach to negotiations on the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, while seeking greater investment in security, competitiveness and resilience. He called for a fair and balanced budget and reaffirmed Malta’s support for Cohesion Policy, while opposing EU-level taxation.
On migration, both stressed stronger border management, returns, action against trafficking and cooperation with countries of origin and transit.
Abela reiterated Malta’s support for a two-state solution in the Middle East and called for de-escalation and diplomacy regarding Iran. He also reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and a just, lasting peace, as well as credible, merit-based EU enlargement. (The Malta Independent)
PN Puts Abela on the Spot Over Daphne Inquiry Recommendations
The Nationalist Party has placed full political responsibility for implementing the Daphne Caruana Galizia public inquiry’s recommendations on Prime Minister Robert Abela, accusing his government of five years of inaction.
Speaking on Thursday, PN officials said Yorgen Fenech’s trial had reinforced the inquiry’s findings on a “culture of impunity” and links between political and business interests. The party also highlighted a court order referring trial testimony to the Police Commissioner to assess whether third parties should face prosecution.
Citing allegations made by Fenech during police interrogations, the PN questioned whether Abela was “comfortable” with claims that Castille knew about the assassination, and challenged his past political decisions and continued links to figures accused of attacking the journalist’s family.
The party said key reforms remain unimplemented, including unexplained wealth orders, anti-SLAPP protections and measures strengthening oversight and police investigations, accusing the government of lacking the political will to act. (Newsbook)
