Fearne calls for continued EU support for Ukraine as war drags on
Malta backs latest sanctions against Russia, warns about shadow fleet activity and regional tensions
Malta has reaffirmed its continued support for Ukraine as the Foreign Minister urged the European Union to “stay the course” in the face of the ongoing invasion.
Speaking at the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, Chris Fearne welcome the progress made by the EU on the proposed 21st package of sanctions against Russia.
“As this war continues to lengthen, the EU must remain committed and stay the course,” Fearne said.
He reiterated Malta’s support for Ukraine’s path towards European Union membership and welcomed the European Commission’s continued efforts in this regard.
Fearne also referred to the continued activity of the Shadow Fleet in the Mediterranean, expressing concern over sanctions evasion, the risks posed to maritime security, and the potential environmental consequences.
The Foreign Affairs Ministers also exchanged views on developments in the Black Sea, the situation in the Middle East, and the recent conflict involving Iran.
“We must continue working together to preserve stability in the Middle East, safeguard freedom of navigation, and uphold international law. These challenges require unity, consistency and continued multilateral cooperation,” he added.
During the EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) High-Level Forum on regional security and cooperation, Fearne expressed Malta’s concern over recent tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz and neighbouring Gulf states, stressing the importance of avoiding any renewed escalation. He urged all parties to uphold the Memorandum of Understanding.
Fearne underlined that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway and stressed the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and protecting seafarers in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
He also emphasised the importance of strengthening people-to-people contacts and expressed Malta’s support for progress on visa liberalisation between the European Union and the GCC countries.
On the situation in Gaza and the West Bank, Fearne reiterated Malta’s opposition to any form of forced displacement and called for the release of withheld Palestinian clearance revenues.
He also underlined the need to identify sustainable mechanisms to support the Palestinian Authority beyond the existing frameworks.