Malta would suffer in a world where 'might is right', president tells diplomats

President Myriam Spiteri Debono has urged diplomats to push for peace and insisted that international law always be respected amid global conflicts.

“A world in which might is right would be detrimental to all countries, especially small nations,” she said.

The president was speaking to members of the diplomatic corps during New Year exchanges held on Thursday at the President’s Palace in Valletta.

The tense global situation featured prominently in Spiteri Debono's speech. 

The president welcoming American ambassador Somer Farkas. Photo: Chris Sant Fournier

At a time marked by conflicts, geopolitical tensions, disregard for human rights, and challenges to international law, Spiteri Debono stressed the significant role played by diplomats.

On the Middle East conflict, she said that peace in the region cannot be put on the back burner”.

Malta continues to insist that the best solution remains a two-state solution, she said.

Turning to Ukraine, Spiteri Debono said Russia’s "illegal and unprovoked aggression" has entered its fifth year, urging efforts towards a peace that respects Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.

The situation in Venezuela showed the fragility of international law and should serve as a reminder of the responsibility all states and leaders have to safeguard human rights and to ensure that electoral outcomes are respected through peaceful, democratic transitions.

“At this juncture, calm and restraint are called for by all actors so that reactions do not exacerbate the plight of the Venezuelan people, but rather assist Venezuelans in securing the democratic environment they deserve to live in and lead,” the president said.

Misinformation and disinformation are intensifying conflicts, she warned, calling for “robust governance frameworks” for artificial intelligence to ensure it remains secure, trustworthy, and human-centred.

The different threats to democratic values that are constantly emerging call for focused attention.

Climate's existential threat

Beyond conflict, the president also highlighted the “existential threat” posed by climate change.

“It fuels sea-level rise, desertification, water scarcity, and food insecurity, acting as a threat multiplier in conflict situations,” she said.

Malta, she added, will continue to highlight the disproportionate impact climate change has on small island nations and developing states.

Moving towards irregular migration, Spiteri Debono stressed the importance of supporting countries of origin, transit, and destination that are dealing with this reality.

She called for multilateral processes that promote safe and regular migration, while “keeping the humanity of migrants at the centre of our considerations”.

Malta will continue to insist that the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations are upheld, she said.

“History has shown us that when humanity, inclusion, and understanding serve as our guiding light, peace and prosperity find fertile ground in which to flourish," she said.

The president said that, as a young nation, Malta has always acted as an honest and reliable partner, with a workforce that has contributed to a vibrant and resilient economy.

Looking ahead, she said Malta will be launching a dedicated framework to further structure its engagement with African, Asia and Oceania partners.

The dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Apostolic Nuncio to Malta, Mgr Savio Hon Tai-Fai, opened the proceedings by praising Malta’s hospitality and its role in promoting peace through dialogue.

“Maltese neutrality does not represent the silence of indifference, but the courage to speak up for peace,” he said.