Greenland’s Future Is Not Up for Debate, Says Abela Prime Minister Robert Abela has stressed that decisions on Greenland’s future belong solely to Greenland and Denmark, warning that Europe is facing a geopolitical moment “not seen in recent decades”. Speaking at an informal European Council meeting in Brussels, Abela pledged Malta’s full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland, grounding his remarks in international law and the UN Charter. He urged restraint in both language and action, cautioning against steps that could escalate tensions or place disproportionate pressure on smaller states. While acknowledging recent positive signals, Abela warned that the coming weeks will be especially sensitive. He added that the European Union carries a responsibility to act with care and maturity. On Gaza, Malta reiterated support for initiatives that promote peace and dialogue, viewing them as opportunities for convergence rather than division. (Times of Malta)
Morning-After Pill Pledge Still Unmet, Women’s Lobby Warns The Malta Women’s Lobby has voiced strong frustration that emergency contraception is still not available free of charge through public health services, despite repeated political commitments and its inclusion in the National Sexual Health Strategy. Currently, the morning-after pill is only provided free at Mater Dei Hospital in cases of sexual assault, dependent on third-party sponsorship and hospital admission. The lobby described this as the bare minimum, arguing that women should not face trauma, bureaucracy or financial obstacles when accessing time-critical medication. It recalled that free contraception was first presented as an electoral promise in 2021 and later revived during consultations in December 2024, yet tangible progress has yet to follow. (The Malta Independent)
Ship Maintenance Curtailed at Freeport After Birżebbuġa Pressure Ship maintenance at the Malta Freeport will be limited to emergency situations following the acceptance of a request by the Birżebbuġa Local Council, as part of new environmental permit conditions. The decision, taken by the Environment and Resources Authority, aims to address concerns about noise, light and air pollution affecting nearby residential areas. The ten-year permit bans vessel dismantling at terminal quays and requires prior ERA approval for any crane dismantling, including consultation with the community. Local council representative Carmel Cacopardo welcomed the restriction but noted that the permit stops short of excluding night-time activity at the West Quay, closest to residents. ERA chair Vince Cassar said this falls outside the authority’s remit. (Maltatoday)
