PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTRY FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TOURISM Malta encourages increased EU outreach with international partners to[...]

Deputy Prime Minister Borg at the EU Foreign Affairs Council on the eve of the fourth anniversary since the beginning of Russia's aggression against Ukraine

On the eve of the fourth anniversary since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, Malta reaffirmed the importance of sustained EU diplomatic outreach with international partners, while strongly supporting ongoing efforts to achieve a comprehensive, sustainable peace for the people of Ukraine.

On Monday, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg participated in the February meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, which discussed efforts to increase pressure on Russia, as it persists in intensified military attacks on Ukrainian civilians.

"Coordinated messaging and increased outreach are essential to protect Ukraine and safeguard the EU's unity and democratic resilience. Acting together gives the EU far greater weight than any member state acting alone," he explained.

While expressing support for the ongoing peace negotiations, Dr Borg agreed that diplomacy must be matched by reinforced pressure on Russia, in full respect of international law. In this regard, the EU must continue seeking more restrictive measures, as well as increased engagement with a wider array of stakeholders, to weaken Russia's ability to sustain its aggression, and dismantle its evasion networks, including the shadow fleet, without impacting member states and their citizens in a disproportionate manner.

On the Middle East, the Maltese Deputy Prime Minister called for de-escalation in the West Bank, expressing concerns on recent developments in land administration, which is fuelling instability and threating the prospects of the Two State Solution.

Dr Borg referred to the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, noting that Hamas's refusal to disarm is a significant obstacle to advancing reconstruction efforts and facilitating humanitarian assistance.

"Prioritising early recovery and reconstruction efforts is essential to building the foundations for sustainable peace and long-term security in Gaza. Restoring basic infrastructure and essential services are crucial steps towards stabilising communities and fostering social and economic resilience," he added.