VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Maltàs Prime Minister Robert Abela said that the voice of the Mediterranean needs to be heard loud and clear on how decisions are taken about irregular immigration. He was addressing a joint press conference by the leaders of nine European countries, following the Med9 summit which was held in Paphos, Cyprus.

He said that irregular immigration is one of the most urgent challenges for the Mediterranean and argued that there is no solution without the participation of all the countries in this region. “Every country in the region must play their part in tackling the crisis. Each country in the region MUST be given the tailored support they need to do just that. For our partners in North Africa and the Middle East to be able to do their part, we must also ensure that the resources needed are made available to them”.

Speaking about the conflict in the Middle East, Abela reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire. He added that Malta agrees that the EU is fully supporting Jordan, as the country is offering shelter to a number of refugees, who have fled their war-torn countries. The King of Jordan, Abdullah as well as the President of the European Commission Ursola Von Der Leyen also attended this meeting. In his speech the King described Jordan as an important strategic partner to bring stability to the region.

PM Abela referred to the solution of two states to pave the way towards peace, hope and dignity. “We stand ready to work with international partners to ensure that peace, security, and justice prevail in the Middle East. Our collective duty must move beyond words – we need action.”

Abela also condemned the Russian war in Ukraine and said that the sovereignty of the Ukraine is not negotiable.

The MED9 was founded 11 years ago on the initiative of the Cypriot Government and includes France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Croatia and Slovenia in an effort to work together and address regional challenges in the Mediterranean.

– Photo Department of Information Malta –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews