Government of Malta

Policy topics Government of Malta is active on

What Government of Malta has said (80)

• 2026-07-13 “17:00 - 11:20:22): Thank you. Malta, welcome to the publication of the EU livestock strategy and the protein plan as well as the opportunity to begin a discussion on how we can develop a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive sector for the future. Regarding the strategy, Malta welcomes its emphasis on risk management, research, innovation as well as the transition towards the circular economy, and we believe that these are essential elements for the sector. However, as Morata has always maintained, any strategy must take into account the different realities of each member state. While Malta supports improving animal welfare, the the limitations we face as a country must be recognized, particularly the fact that Malta is designated as a nitrates vulnerable zone. As a result, our livestock cannot be kept outdoors and must instead be housed in covered structures. Furthermore, the scarcity of available agricultural land in Malta makes it even more challenging for the sector to achieve its objectives. Regarding the protein plan, we agree on the need to increase all forms of protein production within the union. The diversification of food and food sources is recognized as an important objective within our national policy framework. This can help ensure our strategic autonomy while also contributing to stronger field security. At the same time, we must be careful to ensure that any measures introduced do not lead to increased costs for our small producers in a way that further undermines the competitiveness of European products or creates new obstacles. Rising production costs combined with climate related challenges are already placing additional pressure on the viability of the sector. Malta, therefore, encourages initiatives that are economically viable and eligible for financial support. Malta also agrees that the necessary progress can be achieved through innovation and through greater investment in new technologies and research as well as through an evidence based approach that enables production to be maximized in an efficient, sustainable, and economically viable manner. Furthermore, in this regard, it is essential to create a fair market without discrimination between the various protein sources that currently exist within the food chain and those that may emerge in the future. In response to the 2nd question, Malta believes that discussions on these initiatives should be aligned with other union strategies and policies being developed in being developed in parallel in order to ensure coherence between different objectives and to avoid unnecessary administrative regulatory burdens. To conclude, president May Malta looks forward to further technical discussions so that we can continue to support our producers and strengthen food security across the European Union. Thank you very much.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• 2026-07-13 “Agricultural competitiveness is essential for competitiveness as well as for resilient and diversified trade, particularly for small member states. Lazarus, Malta. Regarding the 2027 annual work programme, we agree that the Commission should reconsider the proposed reduction in overall resources, especially the significant cut in the allocation of Malta programs from 60 million to 20 million, and this reduction does not reflect the strong demand recorded for this programme in 2026. We therefore call on the Commission to explore all possible margins to ensure adequate, stable and ambitious funding. Thank you very much.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-07-10 “06:03 - 11:08:41): Thank you, Simon. Malta welcomes the presidency efforts to maintain momentum on this important package. We remain committed to working constructively towards reaching a council mandate in October. We believe this is achievable provided the remaining open issues identified in the presidency steering note are calibrated appropriately to deliver a robust and proportionate framework. For Malta, 4 elements will be key to reaching agreement. 1st, Malta supports the commission's proposal to introduce a new depository passport. This would improve access to specialized depository services, facilitate cross border capital flows, and importantly, address the scarcity of depository institutions in smaller markets where limited choice can increase concentration risk. A passport underpinned by Harmony safeguards would strengthen both the single market and investor protection. Secondly, on the supervision of crypto asset service providers, Malta has already demonstrated its willingness to compromise by supporting direct ESMO supervision of generally significant costs. The the key issue now is ensuring that the criteria for determining significance are objective, proportionate, and future proof. We also need a workable operational framework with greater clarity on the interaction between ESMA, national competent authorities, and AMLA, particularly where firms hold multiple licenses while ensuring that retail investors have clear avenues for protection and redress. On ESMO governance, we recognize that an expanded ESMO mandate requires an updated governance framework. However, efficiency must not come at the expense of national competent authorities' involvement. The board of supervisors should remain the principal strategic decision making body, while the executive board should focus on day to day direct supervisory tasks. National competent authorities must remain closely involved to preserve local expertise and ensure clear responsibilities. Finally, an expansion of ESMO's responsibilities must be matched by adequate resources and a transparent, credible, budgetary and financing model. Otherwise, there's a real risk of overextending ESMA and weakening the effectiveness of the new supervisory framework. Thank you.”
  Regulation of crypto
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you chair. Coming from a very small country, um space comes at a premium and that has been the case forever. Having. Having said that, the Maltese are what we could say. A home ownership nation. Over 80% of the Maltese population own their own house. Basically, it's around 82% at the moment, which. Which says a bit, but still we face challenges like all of us in this room. And somebody made a comment that the housing issue is a social issue. And that is really true. We, if I may share some experiences, we tend to tackle it, divide issue into two. With home ownership, there are various schemes which help particularly first time buyers. First time buyers do not pay stamp duty on the first 200 K of the property, thereby, government will also. If the person does not have enough money to put the 10% deposit, government will put that out for you and then you repay over a long time The subsidized interest rate. There is also another scheme, which is what is referred to as an affordable housing foundation, where the property is sold at 30% less than the market prices. That is how we tend to direct the the ownership issue. We also have what is called an equity sharing scheme, where you purchase property, you buy two thirds of it, the other one third is bought by government, and then you can buy it 20 years, up to 20 years down the line.”
  EU housing policy
• 2026-06-29 “At the same original price, which makes a big difference with rental, it's it's a bit different. Obviously there is, if you like, four main categories government owned property, which is let out at subsidized prices. Another way of helping with with rental is by government renting from the private sector at Basically market rates and then renting out at lower rates and as well facilitating more access to the market. If I say just a couple of words about student accommodation. Well, Malta is small enough that you can go home from university wherever you live on the island. But then with the graduating students who come from the sister island, we also pay out a direct housing accommodation allowance of around €280 per month to every student, which facilitates those students as well. And the the last scheme which which has proven to be quite successful, is this scheme where government will pay the rent above 30% of your income. So it can literally pay up to 70% of the rent. Obviously, there is a threshold, but that has also been a major market changer. Thank you.”
  EU policy on urban development
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you, Madam Chair. I think we all agree that, unfortunately, poverty tends to be a harsh reality in every country. However rich that economy may be. And it also is multi-dimensional and unfortunately, at times it is also intergenerational. As a country, we welcome the first EU anti-poverty strategy. It aligns itself or we align ourselves to that policy. We are going through the second anti-poverty strategy. In Malta, we had 1 in 2014. 2024 at the moment is the second one 2025 to 2035. I would like to make just two points. First and foremost, that there is the need for flexibility in measuring poverty rather than having strict rules. In particular, I refer to benefits in kind, like what we have free childcare, free school transport, free public transport, free health care and housing support, among others. And those do make a difference as well. On the standard of living. So as some of my colleagues said earlier, we need to keep national realities as well in our minds. A second point, which I would like to do is on the issue of non take up. We're a small country, so take up, so to say, is easier. And it has become increasingly less bureaucratic. But we have gone a step forward. We have benefits now which you don't need to apply for. You get them without even applying for for those two benefits. Two particular in kind is the in-work benefit, where through digitalisation and the sharing and the sharing of information, we can identify all those households who are below a certain level of income. And the same is true not only of that and additional cost of living allowance. So whilst we are in agreement with the poverty strategy, we look forward to having better societies, but we also insist on there being more consideration for flexible rules. Thank you.”
  Child poverty policy
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you, Mr. Chair. I think we all agree that some form of labour mobility has existed always. And the key word, the catch word here is the term fair. And I believe that looking at fairness from three facets, fairness to the mobile workers themselves, maybe in the traditional way and in the new ways, in the new forms, fairness to the employers and the other institutions and the other economic agents and the if you like, the receiving economy. And the third facet is that of fairness to the workers in the country where that work is being performed. The effect on, if you like, the local labor market, I think we all agree that nowadays labor mobility has become something, if you like, more different, or rather it occurs in different ways. We have remote working, cross-border working. And I think and we need to agree on this. I'm sure we do, but we need to give it perhaps more importance. There will be more labour mobility in whatever form it takes, given the demographic changes which we are all facing in today's world. And that is something which we must keep in mind. The the aspect of fairness is something which we must invest on, and one way of ensuring more fairness would be the sharing of information would be the sharing of best practices. And also obviously coordination without creating too much burdens coming from a small country. We always talk about not too much burdens or too much bureaucracy. As a final point, I would like to make one point, which perhaps we tend to, to overlook when we are talking about fair mobility for workers, whatever, whatever the form of that mobile labour is, we must keep in mind that we are talking about workers rights, and workers rights are human rights, and those should be protected wherever one works and whatever one, whatever form of work one carries out. Thank you very much.”
  EU regulation of cross-border and posted workers
• 2026-06-26 “36:34 - 11:37:37): Thank you, chair Malta. Thanks to presidency for its work on this proposal and acknowledges the progress achieved, in particular, the recognition and of challenges faced by Ireland member states. We welcome the wording in article 27, which allows our pipeline project to maintain PCI status and eligibility for union financial assistance. Jointly, these timelines provide a credible and important opportunity for Malta to connect to a future hydrogen backbone, whilst providing an opportunity to reinforce Malta's energy system increasing our resilience and energy security. Given the slower than anticipated development of the hydrogen market and Malta's continued structure isolation, these provisions are essential to ensure a realistic pathway towards integration and decarbonization whilst being fully aligned with the union's objectives. And on this basis, Malta supports the proposed general approach. Thank you. Thank you, Chris. So Luxembourg and then Ireland. Thank”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• 2026-06-26 “35:18 - 10:36:11): Thank you, chair. We thank the presidency for steering these negotiations. Malta remains fully committed to advancing the energy transition and considers this proposal to be an important step towards accelerating the deployment of clean energy infrastructure. At the same time, MOTO underlines that national specificities must be duly considered in all legislation. In this context, balancing multiple land uses in an already limited land area will be challenging. Increased efficiency should not come at the expense of safety, environmental protection, or sound planning oversight. In this regard, we thank the presidency for listening to our major concerns and for presenting a workable solution today. To this effect, Malta agrees with the adoption of this general approach and encourages the incoming presidency to safeguard this delicate balance during the forthcoming negotiations with the European parliament. Thank you. Thank you. So Luxembourg and then Ireland.”
  EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• 2026-06-25 “As an environmental priority, as well as an integral component of its long term socio economic development and national security. Our national approach combines infrastructural investment, technological innovation and stakeholder engagement, ensuring a cross-cutting and integrated response. In this context, we welcome the EU Island Strategy, which recognises the specific realities of island states, including the importance and role of non-conventional water resources in achieving a water smart economy under highly water stressed conditions. On progress, Malta continues to invest in leakage reduction, network modernisation, improved quality of desalinated water, expansion of reclaimed water networks and water demand management through a national investment programme exceeding €300 million. Malta applies the Water efficiency first principle, reflecting its structural constraints, including limited storage potential and scarce natural water resources. We support the development of a common methodology for water efficiency targets, provided it remains sufficiently flexible and adaptable to diverse member state realities. We are advancing digitalisation through smart metering, real time monitoring, and control of water infrastructure. Gis based asset mapping, AI driven production and blending tools and digital twin modelling to support scenario analysis and operational decision making. The EU Digitalisation Action Plan should prioritise interoperable standards, skills development and support large scale deployment alongside robust data sharing frameworks on financing. Both national and EU funds remain essential to build a strong pipeline of water resilience projects. Predictable EU support, including technical advisory services and incentives for investments in water use, leakage reduction, digitalization and climate resilient infrastructure remains essential. Unlocking private investment will require more bankable water projects, stable regulatory frameworks and effective use of instruments such as green bonds and targeted financing schemes. Malta remains fully committed to advancing water resilience through pragmatic integrated approaches supported by digital innovation and sustained investment. Thank you.”
  EU policy on water management
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to thank the presidency for its work on this file and takes note of the progress report and the outstanding issues, notably the 2030 and 2035 targets, flexibility mechanisms and vehicle labeling. We stress the importance of maintaining a clear, predictable and effective trajectory towards zero emission mobility. Malta therefore maintains reservations on lowering the 2035 target and will carefully assess proposed adjustments to the 2030 target for vans and related compliance mechanisms. Weakening the agreed trajectory risks undermining market signals, delaying the transition and affecting member states ability to meet effort sharing obligations, particularly in structurally constrained, import dependent markets. Malta recognizes the need for well-calibrated flexibilities, but these must remain limited, targeted and complementary to a strong framework. Their cumulative impact including pooling, multiyear averaging, banking and borrowing, super credits, and other crediting or compliance mechanisms, should be assessed against fleetwide CO2 reductions, technology uptake, affordability, investment certainty, infrastructure readiness and the internal market. This assessment should also consider whether such flexibilities may have disproportionate effects on import dependent member states, especially islands. Given their small markets, reliance on imported vehicles, reduced economies of scale, and higher logistical costs on industrial policy elements, including fuels, low carbon materials and made new provisions. Malta underlines the need for proportionality, legal clarity and relevance for all member states. Crediting mechanisms may deliver uneven benefits and limited advantages to non manufacturing import dependent markets, and these imbalances should therefore be addressed to ensure equitable design across the Union. Malta supports technological neutrality where does not delay electric vehicle deployment or prolonged reliance on transitional solutions. The framework should support investment certainty, timely zero emission vehicle availability and consistency with EU climate objectives. Regarding vehicle labelling, Malta supports greater clarity and transparency provided that the framework remains proportionate, limited to new vehicles and that avoids unnecessary administrative burdens. Thank you.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you. Chair. Malta maintains that the appropriate way to deliver targeted technical improvements under the Chemical strategy for sustainability is through a revision of reach. While existing reach empowerments are useful, Comitology cannot substitute a comprehensive legislative revision addressing the framework's broader objectives. Malta supports using existing reach, implementing powers to modernize and simplify operational aspects, provided this is done transparently and in coordination with Member States to reduce burdens, improve efficiency, and support implementation. On enforcement, Malta considers that the market surveillance regulation already gives national authorities adequate tools, although compliance can still be strengthened through legislative implementation and non-legislative measures. Priority should be given to digital supply. Supply chain traceability. Stronger links between reach enforcement and customs controls, and greater use of AI and automation for risk based inspections. Document screening and monitoring of online products. Capacity building is also essential for smaller member states, which rely on funding, technical assistance and shared enforcement tools. Joint inspections, information sharing platforms, EU recognised accredited laboratories and increased EU funding for testing would be particularly valuable. To conclude, stronger support for industry, especially SMEs, and a more risk based, data driven enforcement approach will improve compliance while making efficient use of limited resources across the union. Thank you.”
  Chemicals regulation
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you, Madam Chair. Biodiversity is an enabling pillar for long term competitiveness, resilience and economic stability for small island states. The link is particularly direct given our dependence on healthy ecosystems across sectors including tourism, water security, agriculture and fisheries. Nature services can offer long term welfare and economic opportunity. However, unlocking this potential requires practical and accessible tools, including targeted public funding, payments for ecosystem services and support for nature based solutions with clear and measurable environmental outcomes. At the same time, the transition to nature positive economy must be grounded in economic reality. For Malta, with a high share of SMEs and limited administrative capacity, the key challenge is ensuring that any investment frameworks remain practical, proportionate and implementable. Nature credits should complement public investments in larger markets and sectors. However, in our case, their applicability is inherently limited due to scale constraints, and such instruments should continue to be tested at pilot level before wider deployment. Stable funding at EU and national levels is therefore essential to secure long term strategic investment across sectors. This should support projects that advance nature conservation and restoration while remaining accessible to small operators. Regarding the enabling policy framework, mainstreaming biodiversity across sectors remains essential for a tailored transition to a nature positive economy, particularly for coastal tourism, agriculture and urban resilience, where ecosystem degradation directly translates into tangible economic risk and increased public costs. Effective stakeholder engagement, provision of practical support for SMEs and local business, and integration of nature based solutions help enable a clear and coherent policy framework. Malta's Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan integrates biodiversity considerations across sectors, aligning economic activity with ecosystem resilience and long term productivity. This is further reflected in sectoral strategies such as the National Fisheries Strategy, which further integrates sustainability and environmental resilience and conservation throughout the fisheries sector. In conclusion, nature is indeed an economic asset and unlocking its value requires the right balance between ambition and practicality. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you, Madam Chair. Malta would like to thank the presidency for its efforts and commitment in advancing this important regulation. We welcome the work undertaken to refocus the regulation on its primary objective, that of supporting and supporting an implementation of the Common Fisheries Policy and ensuring the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture sectors. We also welcome the inclusion of a dedicated provision on fisheries control and data collection, and a stronger emphasis on generation renewal. In this context, we support the direction of travel of this file, and we stand ready to continue engaging constructively during the next stages of the discussion. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you. Chair. Malta considers that the priority should not be to fundamentally redesign the CFP, but rather to improve its implementation, simplification and overall workability. The current regulatory complexity and administrative burden remain key concerns for Malta. For the CFP to deliver effectively, it must be simplified, accessible and workable in practice, particularly for small scale fisheries and smaller administrations. At the same time, decision making must continue to be firmly grounded in sound scientific advice. This is particularly important in data limited regions such as the Mediterranean, where enhanced data collection and stronger stock assessments are crucial to ensure that environmental objectives remain realistic and regionally appropriate. Ensuring a level playing field remains fundamental, both within the union and vis a vis third countries. Divergences in enforcement and non-sustainable practices in shared sea basins risk undermining the sustainability and economic viability of EU operators. The EU must therefore make use of its presence in international fora by putting forward coordinated positions that are more forward looking to address such imbalances and prevent European fishers from being placed at a disadvantage. Malta also underlines the importance of reinforcing the economic resilience of the sector through adequate, accessible and proportionate funding. Under particular, attention should be given to small scale fisheries and generation renewal, with simplified and more accessible funding opportunities for young and first time entrants on environmental measures. Malta calls for these to be evidence based, achievable and tailored to regional realities, particularly in the Mediterranean. Looking ahead, the CFP must become more flexible and regionally responsive, reflecting the realities of different sea basins. Simplification of technical measures, control requirements and reporting obligations will be key to improving compliance and enforcement. Finally, fleet modernisation and energy transition and generation renewal must be gradual, realistic and economically viable. In this context. Of the CFP, supported through a simplified licensing. Improved access to maritime space and stronger support for innovation and investment. In conclusion, Moto believes that the effectiveness of the CFP does not lie in its redesign, but rather in ensuring its effective delivery through simplification, stronger scientific support, a level playing field, and a pragmatic and regionally adapted approach. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries · Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you. Chair. Malta. Also, thank you to the German delegation for raising this relevant point, especially given the new implementation phases of the EU fisheries control legislation while Malta is working to ensure successful implementation. The new rules are creating additional challenges both for public administrations and for operators themselves to support the objectives of the revised control framework. At the same time, implementation of remote monitoring must be practical, proportionate and adaptable to real operational conditions. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you, chair. Ensuring that fisheries sector remains sustainable is essential for the livelihood of our fisheries and for food security. Malta welcomes the progress achieved towards maximum sustainable yield, reflecting strengthened fisheries management both at EU level and within regional fisheries management organisations. Sustainable fisheries can only be achieved through genuine coordination among all parties exploiting shared stocks. However, we must recognise that the Mediterranean presents a distinct reality. Many stocks are shared with third countries and the absence of a level playing field continues to place Maltese fishers at a socioeconomic disadvantage, where rules are not equally respected. For Malta, sustainability cannot be achieved through European action alone. It requires genuine cooperation. Stronger compliance and greater accountability from all parties operating in the Mediterranean. Our fishers cannot continue to be placed at a disadvantage and shoulder obligations that are not applied equally across the basin. On fleet capacity, Malta recognises the obligation to ensure a balance between capacity and fishing opportunities. Nevertheless, we emphasize that this must fully reflect the specific characteristics of small scale Mediterranean fleets and avoid disproportionate constraints on member states with limited capacity, greater flexibility is needed to support modernisation and to facilitate generation renewal, including encouraging young fishers to enter the sector.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Malta supports the objectives of the energy transition and the need to strengthen resilience in the face of volatile fuel prices and growing economic pressures. However, we must remain realistic as for many scale fleets, viable technological alternatives are not yet available. The transition must therefore be gradual, flexible and technically technologically neutral, supported by adequate funding and effective crisis mechanisms to mitigate socio economic impacts. Regarding the landing obligation, Malta notes ongoing implementation challenges and stresses the need for a proportionate and practical approach adapted to the realities of small scale mixed fisheries in the Mediterranean. While Malta supports further efforts to reduce the environmental impact of fisheries, including addressing bycatch and protecting sensitive habitats. We underline that measures must be scientifically justified, proportionate and economically viable. Importantly, they must be applied consistently across all parties, exploiting the same resources to ensure fairness and effectiveness. Sustainable fisheries require a balanced approach, integrating environmental, economic and social dimensions. Malta remains committed to contributing to sustainable Mediterranean in fisheries while safeguarding the viability and future of its fishing communities. Thank you chair.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-16 “Thank you Marilena. Commissioner Malta supports the presidency's approach to the proposed cuts and the Commission's proposal. Different policy areas started from different bases and therefore one cannot ignore ignore this fact and it was therefore appropriate to take account of the changes of the increase or decrease as compared with the 2021 2027 period. While this negotiating box partly corrects the imbalances in the Commission's proposal, cohesion policy would still face a real terms cut of at least 11% and probably more, whereas other areas will see increases of over 700%. This also is a fact. One also cannot ignore the reality that cohesion policy remains crucial even in those Member States who have already seen a significant level of convergence, particularly for those who have permanent geographical disadvantages. Furthermore, cohesion is the best means we have to reinforce competitiveness and resilience, not least in the periphery of the union. In this context, we welcome the transfer of some resources from the EU facility to the pre-allocated component of the NRP. These modest increases are fully justified in our. In our view and respond, at least in part to the recent joint statement by 16 Member States. We are grateful to you, president, for the proposed specific co-financing solution, which goes a long way towards addressing Malta's anomalous situation.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• 2026-06-16 “The gap would be, in fact, significantly reduced. However, we note that Malta will still have the highest national co-financing co-financing rate amongst all member states coupled with an increase of over 100% of own resources. The introduction of the possibility of a transfer from the Home Affairs allocation to the general allocation, we feel, is a sensible one. Regretfully, regarding the the aggressive area based Income Support Scheme, Malta remains in a unique position. In fact, it would be the only member state to face a significant drop in aid per hectare of more than 50%. The maximum amount per hectare does not reflect Malta's specific circumstances, particularly the fact that in Malta most agricultural holdings are smaller than 1 or 2 hectares. A solution, therefore, needs to be found either in the negotiating box or in the sectoral regulation. President, Commissioner. Further work is still needed, including on targets and the reference framework, and we look forward for this to continue on the basis of the current negotiating box in the coming months. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, chair, for the state of play update on the state of play on the legislative files. Um, specifically on the SPC, we do have reservations about the current direction of travel that the file has taken, and I want to echo the concerns mentioned by Poland, Hungary, Germany, Austria and Spain for the reasons mentioned there. And in addition, we also have concern about a model that does not employ a pre-grant opposition possibilities. And in this regard, we consider that the euipo should be the appropriate body for the management and granting function of spcs. Thank you.”
  Intellectual property rights (IPR)
• “Thank you. Chair. Malta stands firmly behind the pragmatic approach to achieving the EU's decarbonisation goals, while boosting competitiveness of the European industry. Various policies, while ambitious, often impose uniform targets that do not account for varied capacities of the industry across different regions. The clean Industrial Deal is a promising step forward, but we must increase our efforts in supporting our SMEs, especially in peripheral regions and island member states, to foster innovation and growth. We need to work towards reducing red tape and administrative burden by simplifying and streamlining funding processes. This will incentivise our businesses to increase private investments towards sustainable practices. Energy market reforms are another critical area, accelerating the expansion of energy grids and cross-border interconnections, ensuring affordable energy access and reducing dependency on external sources are vital to maintaining industrial competitiveness while ensuring that no member state is left behind. Our share of energy and climate responsibilities should be grounded in scientific evidence and cost effectiveness, aligned with international frameworks such as the IMO and ICAO, while ensuring fair competition and a level playing field. A more flexible, phased approach to decarbonisation targets is essential, allowing industries to transition at a realistic pace without placing economic viability at risk. Under the next MFF, Malta Calls for Competitiveness Fund to support various initiatives including IPC three on semiconductors, the Future Chips act two transmission and storage infrastructure, hydrogen energy infrastructure and commercialisation of clean tech cleantech innovations. Malta faces structural bottlenecks linked to geographical insularity, limited connectivity and absence of economies of scale. This is why we continue to advocate for a more inclusive design of funding instruments to ensure smaller member States can participate effectively. In conclusion, we must avoid a one size fits all approach. Uphold the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, and ensure coherence across pan-European, national and regional industrial policies. Thank you. Chair.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you, Madam Chair. I would like to thank the European Commission for the extensive work carried out to implement this vision. Malta acknowledges the progress achieved during the first year of the implementation, and considers that overall developments across its four priorities have been positive. This first year has clearly demonstrated the importance of avoiding a one size fits all approach, which is not practical when considering the diverse agricultural realities across the union. The realities of small, fragmented and structurally constrained agricultural systems must be taken into account in the context of the future cap architecture. We also recognize the initiatives undertaken with regard to simplification, in particular through the simplification package of the current Common Agricultural Policy adopted in December 2025. However, we are disappointed that this package failed to address the complexity of risk management and compensation tools in the context of crisis. As such, every European farmer should be able to benefit from these crucial forms of support. If these tools are further simplified for smaller and more vulnerable member states such as Malta, the availability of workable crisis and and risk management tools is a key condition for agricultural resilience. Furthermore, recent conflicts and geopolitical tensions are having a direct impact on the sector by creating logistical challenges in global supply chains and increasing transport related costs. All of this is, of course, leading to greater market volatility. Therefore, we believe that the vision should be strengthened and adjusted in light of current realities. In order for the union's agri food sector to remain stable, competitive and resilient. In conclusion, Madam Chair, I would like to appeal for recognition that while the progress achieved under the vision is indeed positive, it must be accompanied by a policy framework that allows sufficient flexibility to address national realities and safeguard the viability of farming in different territorial contexts. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you. Chair. Malta recognises the progress made in the discussions under your presidency as regards PRM and the forum. At this point of the discussions, we agree with the proposals being made as they provide a legal framework which amalgamate the objectives of the European Ecological Pact and the Farm to Fork strategy. Both of [00:32:00] them are key to ensure sustainable production and food security. We look forward to contribute at future discussions under the incoming presidency. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you chair, and I'll try my best to keep within the time limit. First, I would like to thank Oscar and our Spanish colleagues for this initiative. Malta reiterates its full support for this declaration, which aptly highlights the pressing concerns facing maritime freight transport as a result of the implementation of the ETS. Our message is clear we cannot afford to sorely limit ourselves to undertaking monitoring actions. A more decisive step forward is required. We need to act fast and expedite implementation of robust actions to reinforce the capacity of the EU ETS directive to pre-empt the risks outlined in the declaration. Such action requires preventive measures that halt the consistent and imminent threat of evasive behaviour, and the resulting major unprecedented consequences on our economies. Furthermore, we strongly urge due consideration of the review clauses in EU legislation in relation to future alignment with measures adopted at the International Maritime Organization. Already at this stage, to provide clarity in terms of how existing EU and future IMO rules are expected to avoid duplication. Finally, let's continue our push for global solutions within the IMO to address the decarbonisation of the maritime sector at a global level, thereby guaranteeing a truly level playing field and the real reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions. Thank you.”
  Decarbonisation of maritime transport
• “Thank you. Chair. Molto supports the objectives of the Industrial Accelerator Act. We acknowledge that this framework aims to provide stronger demand signals and greater investment certainty. However, as a small, open and highly trade dependent economy, concerns remain regarding its effectiveness in practice, the cumulative burden of new measures alongside existing obligations under other frameworks such as the Net Zero Industry Act, risks overstretching administrative capacity and increasing compliance costs. Impacts are also likely to differ across sectors. While some operators may benefit from stronger demand signals, others, particularly those that are reliant on imported inputs, may face increased and disproportionate pressures. Further clarity is also required as to how union origin requirements will be defined and applied in practice, so as to avoid legal uncertainty and unintended impacts on established trade agreements. In addition, it must be ensured that measures on foreign investment and value added requirements remain proportionate and consistent with the competences under the treaties. Malta recognises that targeted European preference and low carbon criteria in public spending can help drive demand for cleaner industrial products, providing important signals for investment and decarbonisation. With that said, the effectiveness of such criteria will depend primarily on how they interact with market realities in terms of competition and existing administrative capacities. For Malta's perspective, Active, overly restrictive origin requirements or rigid exclusions of third country suppliers risk reducing competition, increasing costs and placing a disproportionate burden on smaller member states that rely significantly on global value chains. Malta, therefore, stresses the need to strike the right balance between ambition and proportionality. Thank you.”
  "Buy European" provisions
• “Thank you chair. Malta recognizes the value of the Steel and Metals Action Plan in enhancing the Union's strategic autonomy and contributing towards industrial resilience. At the same time. Caution should be exercised to ensure that the measures are calibrated and proportionate, in line with the interests of downstream industry. A core pillar of our economy's balance is required to avoid an excessive cumulative impact of different measures and policies on sectors such as manufacturing and construction, particularly on SMEs, including in higher costs for Maltese industry and consumers. Energy affordability continues to represent a significant challenge, underscoring the need for more robust EU level mechanisms to guarantee access to competitively priced, low carbon electricity. This comparative disadvantage must be tackled to ensure the viability of the union's energy intensive industries. Eu level solutions must also ensure that smaller member states are not placed at a systemic competitive disadvantage, particularly as they are price takers in the global marketplace. On this note, we are especially attentive to the maiden Euro proposal in the upcoming Industrial Accelerator Act and the current discussions on the possible downstream application of Cbam. Turning to automotive, the package is important for European industry, but here too, implementation must remain proportionate without imposing excessive burdens on manufacturers across the supply chain.”
  Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
• “Thank you, Madam Chair, for this important discussion, particularly in the light of the current geopolitical developments which continue to increase pressure on several sectors related to agriculture as well as on the fisheries sector in Europe. Malta believes that the transition towards sustainable energy in the fisheries sector must be realistic. The core of support to fleets and fishermen should be flexible in order to address the operational realities of our fleet, as well as market volatility. At present, fully carbon neutral technologies are not yet available, particularly for small scale vessels, which are a pillar of our artisanal sector. Therefore, there is also a need for greater regulatory flexibility, focusing on efficiency improvements and the gradual adoption of technology. At the same time, Malta stresses the need to ensure a level playing field. We insist that against this background, European fishermen should not be disadvantaged compared to fleets from third countries. The principle of a level playing field should be reflected in concrete terms, including through equivalent standards for imports. In this regard, Malta encourages the Commission to further strengthen the fisheries policy framework within Rfmos, such as Gfcm, in order to ensure that all our efforts are not undermined by lower standards applied by third countries.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “(18:08:54 – 18:14:41): Thank you. The discussion that we have just had today and yesterday in the council of ministers was a productive, constructive, and honest conversation. I would like to start by putting on record my gratitude to the Cypriot presidency of the council, the ministers responsible for culture, and the minister responsible for education for a job well done in leading these exchanges. I'm also very grateful for the support that we received from the council today, especially on the weaponization of sport and culture for propaganda. Sport and culture should never be used to normalize war crimes and to normalize aggression. Normalization is never to be mistaken with reconciliation. In sports, the recent decision by the International Olympic Committee to lift restrictions on Belarus is 1 of a series of attempts to normalize what is happening in Ukraine. It follows a decision that was taken earlier by the International Paralympic Committee to invite Russia to come back to the Milan Okortyna Games, a decision by World Aquatics and by other associations and sporting federations. This reversal of restrictions comes as the war rages on, as Ukraine and as its infrastructure, including its sports infrastructure, continues to be deliberately targeted on a daily basis. It is a decision that is therefore a cause for concern. And it is also 1 that merits consideration from a public policy, a public safety, and a public security point of view. Notably, for European sporting events and for member states who are hosting sporting competitions. This especially given the lack of clarity on safety protocols, on the use of national symbols, and political representation. And cultural sectors more broadly for their strong stance on this. The scenes that we've seen in the Venice Bay and Nala this weekend speak for themselves. For us, Ukraine is family, and we will always come through for our family and protect our family. With the ministers, we also had an exchange on the EU work plan for culture. Our goals are aligned, and we want more European cooperation in a way that is responsive and flexible, focused firmly on structural issues, on working conditions in the culture and creative sectors, on artistic freedoms, and on issues like the impact of artificial intelligence. These are all matters that featured significantly in the culture compass for Europe. Discussions with the ministers for sport focused amongst other issues on issues related to mental health and sport. It was an opportunity to speak about the silent reality affecting many athletes, coaches, and the wider sporting community. In the revised council recommendation on health enhancing physical physical activity, we will put a greater emphasis on this at on the mental well-being dimension. On a concluding personal note, many thanks to doctor Tina and doctor Lina, the Cypriot ministers for their work and above all for their friendship. You did great work over the last few months, not least in advancing the work on proposals of our Erasmus plus and Agora EU and getting partial general approaches on these files. And this made Europe proud, and it made Cyprus proud. For my part, I look forward to continue working with council, with ministers, and more broadly with cultural and support communities even under the most difficult circumstances. Thank you, commissioner. Now I will open the floor for questions. We'll start from here.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you. Chair Malta understands Lithuania's concerns regarding the dairy sector and recognizes the economic and structural pressures faced by farmers. Similar challenges affect small and island based farming, including high cost for feed, transport, energy, and regulatory compliance. These pressures are intensified by limited economies of scale and geographic constraints. Traditional and small scale farmers are especially vulnerable to prolonged instability. In this regard, Malta underlines the importance of a flexible common agricultural policy that reflects these realities and supports resilience, generation renewal and sector viability while ensuring a balanced policy and safeguard sustainability, food security, rural communities and cultural heritage.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you, Minister. Thank you for this discussion. Our size and the [00:12:30] closeness between rural and urban areas means a different reality from other countries. When we talk about digital connectivity and internal logistics, however, we are being affected by realities that are also affecting the rest of Europe. An ageing population, the decrease in the number of farmers and infrastructure. Apart from socio demographic trends, many of our challenges are due. To the limited land available. [00:13:00] All these factors are increasing pressure on our food security and also increase the dependency on imported food. Another challenge for Malta is finding a balance between economic development and trying our best not to keep taking up more agricultural land. For this reason, we relaunched a reform a few months ago on the renting of agricultural land with the aim of protecting farmers rights and preserving agriculture. Agricultural [00:13:30] land. Rural areas are also supported thanks to measures or interventions from the Programme for Rural Development, the Leader programme, as well as the Strategic plan of the Cap. Direct aid to the farmers remains an important source to keep our agricultural sector viable. Together with this, awareness raising is also crucial and this is being carried out by the Farm extension services where farmers are being given training on how [00:14:00] to use natural resources better. In answer to your second question on an EU level. [00:14:08] More support and more flexibility in financial instruments for farmers and other actors in rural areas can be considered as important tools in order to reach the common and strategic goals of the long term vision for rural areas. Thanks to targeted investments for processing and storing, economic opportunities are [00:14:30] created for the food chain and for strengthening local food security. The Cap is a very important financial instrument. This will help in attracting more young farmers and also fosters investment for more modern infrastructure and the digitalization of the sector. Other instruments EU instruments ensure investment targeting many goals, particularly ecological and social goals. [00:15:00] Eu financing should be strengthened through state aid where needed. Therefore, we would like to reiterate the need for more flexibility in this regard, and schemes like the temporary crisis framework need to be extended on a national level. We are carrying out projects to identify the best use of water, fertilizers and pesticides, pesticides in consultation with actors. It is also important that definition of rural areas takes into account specificities [00:15:30] specificities of each member state. In mentioning this, in light of Malta's characteristics, rural areas are not considered remote, and those living in rural areas have the same access to services as people living in urban areas. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you. Chair. I thank the presidency for your continued efforts in advancing this important file. The Connecting Europe facility has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness in supporting the development of transport infrastructure projects across the union. In this regard, Malta has always underlined the importance of maintaining CEF as the primary instrument for implementing Ten-t initiatives. We have also stressed for the future programme to preserve its current structure and fundamental principles to ensure stability and consistency in both funding allocation and project execution. From a transport perspective, Malta welcomes the text as it stands today. It is inclusive of all member states, including island member States and their specific Specifically and rightly maintains a strong focus on both the core and comprehensive networks. In this regard, we strongly support the inclusion of ports on the European maritime space as having an important role in facilitating cross-border connectivity. We do believe that this balanced approach should equally be reflected in the energy related provisions. It is essential that the energy security of supply of all member states, particularly of Ireland member states, is duly prioritised. This is key for our transport sector, especially as we continue to make strides for the sector's electrification. With this in mind, Malta remains committed to working closely with the presidency to ensure that a well calibrated text is put forward for our energy ministers, and the partial general approach could be adopted at the forthcoming Energy Council. Thank you.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “The only sectors which connect us to the continent and the rest of the world, and upon which our economy is totally dependent. The ETD ignores the structural realities of our country in the periphery, which has permanent handicaps also. Taxation is and should remain a national prerogative through the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. Member States should be able to continue tailoring policies according to their specific needs. Which brings me to the final point. The inclusion of the indexation mechanism is something which we cannot agree to in our case. Its introduction will simply translate into high energy bills, and I'd like to explain why. Our energy mix consists in 70% natural gas, 10% solar and 20% via the interconnector we have with Sicily. Moving forward, we'll have a second interconnector with Sicily, and we've applied for a third one in the future. And even here our reliance is solely on Sicily because everywhere else is too far away. As demand increases, we still depend on natural gas for about 50% of our electricity City needs. We're exploring with renewable energy, but even here it is challenging because sea depth a few meters off the coast drops immediately beyond 100m. Hence, to conclude, unless there is a permanent solution because of permanent geographical limitations, I can hardly see a change in our position both now and in the foreseeable future. Thank you.”
  EU competences on taxation
• “Thank you Minister, and thank you as well for preparing this policy debate and this opportunity to express [00:13:00] our views on such an important point, because we do recognize the importance of drawing attention to how research can be harnessed to foster a research ecosystem that propels the EU towards technological leadership in critical areas like health care, AI, net zero, energy, space and beyond. So we do think this is timely. And to achieve this, we think that the European research Area must elevate its prioritisation of maximising the capitalisation and impact of research findings. This, we believe, [00:13:30] will entail a collaborative effort to consolidate and interlink knowledge Valorisation tools, as well as pooling resources and expertise. Countries with lower level of R&D must be particularly targeted with targeted, we believe, and supported in this respect, ensuring that no Member State is left behind in the realm of technology. We feel that the EU must highlight its commitment to bridge the Valley of Death to prevent potentially pivotal technologies from falling short of realising [00:14:00] their full potential. And to address this challenge, there is a need to diversify funding sources. This includes not only exploring alternative public funding instruments but also actively engaging with the private sector, including venture capital, seed funding and equity. Furthermore, the implementation of public support measures such as interest free or subsidized interest rate loans could serve as reinforcing mechanisms supporting research breakthroughs through transform being transformed into tangible, [00:14:30] market ready solutions. The strength of any economy lies in the capabilities of its workforce, so establishing a skilled, educated and productive workforce as a pillar of the EU's R&D ecosystem system is vital for effective knowledge valorization, Malta suggests further EU support is given towards professions engaged in knowledge transfer, in the deployment of tools to foster entrepreneurship in critical technology domains, and recognising [00:15:00] the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in research. Moreover, we acknowledge the need for appropriate legal frameworks to be streamlined, ensuring an efficient, seamless and user friendly pathway for valorising intellectual property. Civil society views also need to be taken into consideration and through the co-creation of policies, direct citizen engagement, embracing citizen science initiatives, and supporting bottom up research activities, we can elevate the visibility and significance of R&D. This [00:15:30] broad engagement will not only enhance our understanding of economic and market dynamics, but can also play a pivotal role in building public trust in the scientific process. Malta's R&D strategic Plan for of 2023 to 2027 aims to catalyze knowledge valorisation on a local level. The. The Draft Strategic Plan encompasses of various measures to amplify citizen involvement and awareness, awareness, strengthen Stem education and entrepreneurship, and foster enhanced collaboration [00:16:00] between industry and academia. Through this comprehensive and forward looking approach, we are seeking to lay the foundations for a vibrant R&D landscape to help accelerate and boost knowledge valorization. And to that end, we look forward that we can also bring this into the European level. Thank you very much.”
  Research priorities within the EU
• “Thank you. Malta believes that advances in biotechnological technologies, such as NGS, can provide innovative solutions and create new tools for farmers and for the entire agricultural sector, with the aim of increasing the resilience and sustainability of the sector. In view of this, we are in favour of the valorization of agricultural products as well as investment in research and in production. However, we want to emphasize the need for new technologies which must be accessible and affordable for farmers and small scale producers. In this context, we want to ensure that the legislation should always be drafted in such a way that it addresses the specific challenges that countries face. It is important that we continue to work constructively to ensure that the opportunities created by new technologies are accessible to all. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you chair. And we wish to thank the delegations for raising this matter because their concerns are also our concern. It is my duty here to recall Malta's concerns that I have to say were highlighted throughout the negotiations on this file when it came to the various risks and loopholes leading to potential carbon leakage in the Mediterranean. And I remember the exact words during our discussion of June last year when we said that [00:37:00] the expected impacts go beyond the maritime sector, but are also substantially of a socioeconomic nature. And what I said back then holds on still today. Now, I must emphasise that over the years, Malta has consistently underlined its concern with the ramifications that taking action at the EU level to regulate a global industry such as shipping could have on the competitiveness of the maritime industry. Our member States and their people, and this is especially the case [00:37:30] in the Mediterranean Basin, where we experience close proximity to southern non-EU Mediterranean ports. And these concerns were also highlighted here throughout the negotiations on the EU, ETS, maritime and are in fact the very same concerns we made on other environmental files, such as the designation of the sulphur emission control area in the Mediterranean and more recently, the designation of the Mediterranean as a NOx emissions control area through [00:38:00] the IMO via the Barcelona Convention. Ensuring a level playing field in the Mediterranean has and always will be a challenge, and we need to cooperate and find tools to work and ensure a level playing field between all ports and at the same time meet our environmental targets. [00:38:18] Preliminary information that is coming forth is indicating that the desired effect of controlling emissions might not necessarily be achieved with what we have on [00:38:30] the table. I am saying this because this is not an issue of carbon leakage alone, but also a matter of competitiveness of European transhipment ports. And in these challenging times, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to ensure connectivity. Freight movements and the security of supply of goods that is vital for all Member States, particularly islands, whilst ensuring the sustainability of the economy. So we support the call on the European Commission to give these concerns due urgent [00:39:00] attention, and we are ready to work with the Commission and the Member States to ensure that this situation is monitored closely, pre-empting negative repercussions from the outset to prevent that our economies do not suffer irreversible effects. And I ask the European Commission to consider carrying out a more detailed impact assessment to include more ports in third country states, especially in the Mediterranean, and the impact on member states like Malta that are on the periphery of the [00:39:30] European Union. And we are also open to identifying other avenues to resolve this serious matter, support industry in adapting to the challenges, and to mitigate risks in order to avoid carbon leakage, distorting the competition of ports in the Mediterranean basin. And we continue to urge for regional and global solutions within the International Maritime Organisation to address the decarbonisation of the maritime sector in order to ensure a truly global level playing field and a [00:40:00] reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Thank you.”
  Decarbonisation of maritime transport
• “Chair, Malta shares the concerns about the risk of possible disruption of supplies and also the risk of Europe losing competitive edge when it comes to medical devices and in-vitro diagnostic [00:17:00] medical devices. However, I have to put this out that on the ground at the moment, there is a lack of effective regulation which is leaving our patients to a certain extent, unprotected. I have been attending these council meetings for the last ten years. This is probably my 20th epsco, and if you consider The Informers is probably my 40th meeting, and I as far as far back as I can recall, we have been discussing this medical devices regulation at [00:17:30] least for ten years, and we cannot postpone this indefinitely. We are our patients at the moment are unprotected, so we urgently need, and I urge that we urgently need to get a dialogue between all stakeholders, industry, regulators, Commission and Member States to to to get to the bottom of this, because postponing it indefinitely is not protecting our patients to the extent that they deserve.”
  Medical devices
• “Thank you. Chair. As the Minister has already said this morning, I would like to show solidarity to Portugal. Malta, thanks, Portugal for this initiative and for the discussion on the. Risk management. The recent climatic events, including storm in the Mediterranean region, showed that climate related risks have become a structural challenge for agricultural production across the entire union for small and exposed member states such as Malta. The impact is immediate and places significant pressures on farmers and on national resources, As we already did at the January Council, Malta stresses the need to consider mechanisms to address market failures, particularly where private insurance does not cover systemic risk. So I would like to encourage the community to facilitate further discussions with the aim of finding solutions that can limit the impact of the damage being suffered by farmers across the union.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, chair. Firstly, I'd like to start by expressing our appreciation for all the work and progress you've achieved on the various files that you have mentioned. Specifically, the ECF, we welcome the presidency's efforts to find a compromise on joint priority setting and the linkages with Horizon Europe, which go in the right direction. More broadly, we underline the importance of the excellence principle and the needs to apply it fully across the union. To strengthen competitiveness throughout the EU, access to the fund must be effective and inclusive. We therefore support measures that improve access to competitive calls for less experienced entities with a special focus on SMEs, remain the backbone of the EU economy. Thank you.”
  EU-level coordination of research agendas
• “Thank you. Chair. I would like to thank the Commission for the two proposals that will help farmers strengthen their position within the food chain. It is important that we continue with our efforts so that farmers have a just and fair income to address the current lack of balance and better protect farmers against unfair trade practices. We agree with initiatives that give better value to products such as those belonging to the short supply chain. This is one way of supporting and promoting local products. We also believe that this is a good opportunity for small scale farmers, who have limited potential to export and compete with big companies, as this gives them the opportunity to advertise their product better. It is important that this process is a transparent one. In order to avoid incorrect use of these terms and to ensure that customers always get reliable information. We also agree on the modality of how contracts between the producer and the buyer are carried out. Thanks to this, we will decrease abuse that impacts small farmers. We agree with strengthening the voice of farmers within the food chain. And we believe that this should be done through a legal framework that is effective for everyone. While we agree fully with the proposal for further simplification and the recognition of producer organisations and better incentive incentives, this should not be carried out at the expense of those countries that, for some reason or other, have very few recognised organisations. On the proposal on cross-border enforcement against Utps, we agree on the framework. Proposed strong mechanisms for information exchange and investigations are crucial to address and mitigate challenges brought about by such practices. We look forward for further discussions on the two proposals that strengthen the position of farmers within the food chain from a wider perspective. Thank you.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. And also, many thanks to you and your team for all the work you have put into the package where we support the ambition underpinning it. Strengthening the Siu and deepening market integration are essential to mobilise capital and sustain growth across the union. And at the same time, the supervisory framework must remain targeted, proportionate and anchored in clear principles. Firstly, we would favour a more balanced and focused approach. Direct supervision should remain limited to significant market infrastructures where systemic and cross-border relevance is clearest. In this context, crypto asset service providers should remain under national supervision for the time being. The existing framework is still recent and should be allowed to prove its effectiveness while supervisory Reconvergence continues to be strengthened. Secondly, the definition of significance should be clear, objective and linked to cross border relevance and systemic impact. It should rely primarily on quantitative indicators such as transaction volumes and union level market share, complemented by qualitative factors like interconnectedness and sustainability. This would ensure as much role would remain focused on genuinely systemic infrastructures. Thirdly, on governance, we believe that clarity on roles and decision making is essential. We encourage careful reflection on the proposed Executive Board, particularly regarding the concentration of discretionary powers. The framework must respect established principles on delegation and preserve the right institutional balance. The Board of Supervisors should remain central and any executive structure should support not replace that role. Finally, we would favor a joint supervisory model based on partnership between ESMA and national authorities rather than hierarchy. This would minimise costs, avoid duplication and make the best use of existing supervisory capacity. Thank you.”
  Financial regulation
• “Thank you. Stephanie. Thank you for all the effort the presidency has put into this file, and for presenting a text which attempts to reconcile all the divergent positions represented around the table. In our case, we have difficulties both with the context and the actual content on the context. We are discussing this proposal at a time when and I quote from the letter the president of the European Commission sent to the leaders in the run up to the European Council less than a month ago. Parts of energy bills also remain too high. Taxes, levies and charges increased last year for both industry and households. Electricity is disproportionately affected, with taxes for industry 15 times higher than those for gas and for households five times higher. This goes against our need to massively electrify and as we all know, electrification should be at the core of our competitiveness, energy security and climate objectives. This proposal has been presented four years ago. We just need to go back to the beginning of the year to appreciate how much the context has changed since January. The Commission has adopted six omnibus proposals to strengthen EU competitiveness. Also, less than a month ago, the European Council has called for the revision of ETS to implementation framework. Now I'll go to the content where the one size fits all approach has been presented in. The text does not go far enough to address our concerns. My government cannot sign to a proposal which could result in taxing energy products used for aviation and maritime sectors.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you. Chair. As an influential global player, the EU is in a position to shape a global shift towards a circular economy, fostering sustainable growth and mitigating environmental degradation. As a small island state, Malta faces all the possible challenges affecting small island developing states. Therefore, we are committed to sharing and exchanging experiences, as well as lessons learned across all sectors to provide capacity building and assistance to SIDs in line with the SDGs. Fostering sustainable economic growth and resilience. We remain committed to engaging actively in various multilateral fora at regional and international level. The Barcelona Convention has proven to be an example through which Mediterranean countries are cooperating towards the protection and conservation of the marine environment by addressing common actions, such as the prevention and reduction of pollution from different sources in the Mediterranean region. Malta supports and implements the Regional Plan on Marine Litter Management in the Mediterranean, reinforcing synergies to both European and multilateral levels to combat plastic pollution and promote a circular economy in order to ensure a successful outcome at Inc. 5.2. We should deepen cooperation with like minded global partners, build momentum and reinforce shared priorities. In parallel, we should constructively engage with lesser aligned countries by identifying possible landing zones, bridging gaps and fostering trust. Motor believes that the finalization of a solid architecture and structure of the new treaty is pivotal. While more detailed areas of intervention can be further discussed at the technical level in future negotiations, motor reiterates that the new agreement needs to account for ambition and feasibility, particularly when addressing the entire life cycle of plastic products. Market stability can be achieved by avoiding duplication of legal regimes and ensuring that any new proposals consider the availability of affordable alternatives and their potential impact on SMEs and consumers. We look forward to future negotiations on this matter. Thank you.”
  EU position at multilateral environmental negotiations
• “Thank you. Chair. Malta would like to thank the Spanish Presidency for the work carried out aimed at reaching these conclusions for the long term vision for the EU's rural areas. As we have always insisted, Malta's realities are rather different [00:29:30] to the rest of the EU. And the challenges faced by our rural areas are also very different to those faced by other member states. This is due to our country's size, which results in geographic proximity between urban and rural areas, which naturally enjoy the same services and which cannot be considered remote. We therefore believe that any policy or funding programme which will be developed for the future should [00:30:00] further build on these conclusions and should recognise the different realities of rural areas across the Union, including those of island member States like ours. Thank you.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “So, there are 2 parts for what I'm about to say. The first part is the more formal part where I thank you for a constructive exchange, a productive exchange, full of insights and laying strong foundations for the Irish presidency and its preparations for the culture the work plan for culture. And I invite the Irish presidency to take this leadership role, and I assure you that the commission will be supportive. And then there is the personal part where I make a bit of a personal observation. And this is really the part where I say what I think you need to hear. And it's really made me happy to hear many of you speak about the importance of strengthening our role in the world, of international culture relations. Honestly, I I was very appreciative of the fact that many of you recognize that this is something that we have to work on. At the same time, colleagues, let me remind you that in the context of ongoing discussions that are happening in this room, in this council even, when the commission is doing this, it is the member states that are asking for caution and watering down the ideas that we have for work in this area. So going forward, I would like to invite you also to have an internal reflection on this also with your ambassador ambassadors. And I really hope that the council will be constructive in this part of the the inter institutional negotiations in the joint declaration. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you. Chair. Extreme climate events are on the rise and therefore more efficient financial mechanisms must enter into force to tackle the difficult realities we are facing, particularly those faced by our farmers. Malta has long underlined the fact that the current framework and instruments to tackle the crisis, for example, brought about by climate change, are insufficient. Therefore, although we empathise with most of the arguments brought forward, we believe that concrete action is needed to address these crises. We also believe that we must exploit Europe's agricultural diversity to create united risk measures that strengthen resilience all over the continent. We support Portugal in asking the Commission to consider the importance of presenting an integrated strategy for risk management and climate crisis, which cover prevention and resilience aspects, as well as a rapid response to consequences on a territorial level, so as to continue strengthening the situation that farmers find themselves in in the light of climate change. Thank you.”
  Climate efforts
• “Thank you, Minister. Firstly, I would like to express our solidarity with Slovenia and Greece in view of the floods [00:25:00] that they experienced in August. It is now a reality that a part of the challenges that we are facing are due to the climate conditions which are also undermining food security and the agricultural sector. In the past we also experienced such floods and droughts and therefore we can perfectly understand the importance of showing such solidarity with these countries which are currently facing such challenges, including our neighbours in North Africa. Such challenges will become increasingly more common in the Mediterranean Mediterranean [00:25:30] future. Therefore, it is crucial that we strengthen our adaptation and mitigating measures to be able to face such situations.”
  Climate efforts
• “Thank you, Minister. Clearly, some of the challenges we are facing which are exacerbating the problem of food insecurity and threatening the entire agriculture sector are the result of adverse climate conditions. I'd like to express my solidarity with Portugal, Spain and France that have all experienced drought in recent months and with Italy that was hit by severe floods over the past years, Malta has not been immune to the effects of climate change and we too have had our fair share of droughts and flooding. So we believe it is essential and only right for us to support countries that have been experiencing climate related challenges in recent years. Thank you.”
  Climate efforts
• “Thank you chair. I would like to start by wishing Oliver every success in his future work in such an important sector. We would like to thank the Hungarian presidency for their work on this proposal. We believe that the work carried out on this legislation, on the transportation of animals, reflects the EU's will to improve animal welfare standards. In this context, we would like to highlight that in order to move forward, we need to adopt a balanced approach that does not impose unnecessary burdens on the agricultural sector. We look forward to contribute further under the Polish presidency. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “Thank you chair. Good morning everyone. I would like to wish best of luck to our new commissioner. I won't repeat your name because it has been repeated many times this morning. Um, I wish you luck because this is a complicated, but yet very exciting portfolio and I'm sure you will do well. Allow me to start by thanking the presidency for the excellent work carried out and the progress made on this dossier. The text we are adopting today is an important step. Acting upon the Valletta Declaration on Road Safety, which we had adopted during the Maltese Presidency back in 2017. Establishing a specific and efficient system providing union wide effects of driving qualifications will contribute to improving road safety throughout the union. This can effectively contribute to our union's prime objective of achieving Vision Zero, a goal which my country wholeheartedly endorses and is also prioritising at national level. We believe that the text presented today respects each member state's judicial and administrative procedures, while also providing enough flexibility for Member States to cooperate with each other in enforcing such disqualifications. To this effect, Malta can support the adoption of a general approach. With that said, it is important that the delicate balance reached today is safeguarded during the forthcoming discussions with the European Parliament. Thank you.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you, Lina, and good morning, colleagues. It's good to see you again. And first of all, many thanks to the Cypriot presidency for initiating this discussion on the next work plan for culture. Colleagues, we have to really not underestimate how important this discussion is and how timely it is. It comes at a time when we are all facing so many questions. It comes at a time where we have to make a collective effort, a collective effort to win over hearts and minds of citizens and of Europeans. And I want to start by sharing an experience from my most recent mission to the Baltic States. I come from Narva, from Estonia, where I was celebrating Europe Day on Saturday. For those of you who are maybe not familiar with it, Narva is 100 meters away from the Russian border. You can literally see on the other side of the river, the Russian, the Russian territory. It's a place where, on a daily basis, many Europeans like us have drones flying over their heads, over their roofs. It's a place where the director of a museum, of the Narva Museum, again, a European like us, so a European citizen, has been sentenced in absentia for 12 years in prison and where her colleague who was doing a public lecture just doing a public lecture. Again, another European was beaten. And as a result of this beating, he died. So this is the backdrop against which we have this discussion. But there, what I could see was people who are so incredibly strong. Their message is that Europe starts there, and it's a message that they live. So they live Europe. They celebrate democracy, which is what they did on Europe Day. They celebrate freedom, and all that comes with it. And I guess the message that that sends to us around this table is that let's not forget what is at stake here. Let's not forget that this is existential. Let's remember that cultural spaces are the places where people meet, where they celebrate, where they discuss, where they engage, and where democracy lives. Let's remember that cultural workers, musicians, actors, writers, illustrators, and so on and so forth are so fundamental in this joint mission that we have to win over the hearts and minds of Europeans. And this is precisely the reason why these issues are so central in our culture compass for Europe, a compass that we've built together in these rooms and that we will implement together. And I especially want to thank you all for the commitment to advance the discussions on the joint declaration, which reaffirms our political commitment on the principles that underpin this vision. And so far as the work plan is concerned, I am very glad to see that the implementation of the current work plan is now almost over, and this has facilitated cooperation, the steer direction, and this enabled us to learn from one another. Most notably, the experience from the open method of coordination platforms was very valuable. It allowed us to pool expertise to share best practices and to develop policy recommendations. And this inspired flagship initiatives in the culture compass, like the revision of the EU International Cultural Relations strategy and the guidelines on culture, health, and well-being. It was also what inspired the Team Europe approach for cultural heritage in Ukraine, an initiative that was born in Uzhhorod and where the commission coordinated joint efforts to support restoration, preservation, and conservation of cultural heritage. Turning then to the future work plan. This has to be focused on impact. Impact. Impact. Impact. First, let's build on what works. Let's draw lessons from recent crises and adapt our cooperation to new realities. Second, we have to focus our priorities on where it matters the most. All of us know all too well that our resources are not infinite, and we are stretched. Let's keep this focused and let's keep it practical. Actions have to be concrete. And third, let's focus on cooperation where it adds value. The issues are well known. Let's focus on the priorities, the impact of artificial intelligence, working conditions, threats to freedom of artistic expression. My suggestion would be to focus a lot on data collection and that the cooperation that we do is structured. To conclude, our cultural compass, and I insist on the word our cultural compass, already sets the course for the way forward. I would very much like to see this work plan complementing it with more result oriented actions. You can count on my support and the commissions as committed partners in this joint mission.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you. Chair Malta welcomes the revisions aimed at improving the animal welfare package. And therefore we will be examining these proposals in further detail. We welcome the introduction of EU regulations for animal welfare. This reflects steps being taken nationally. We believe that any revision should take into consideration the specificities of each Member State. We look forward to contributing to future discussions on these proposals. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
• “Thank you Paulina. Thank you to the presidency for coordinating this debate. And thank you to the Commission as well for putting forward this plan. I will go through a number of points that I consider pertinent in this discussion. First and foremost, our first goal should be the successful realization of a complete, genuine energy union. And in this regard, I have to refer to the fact that until today, we have member States that are not completely connected to the European electricity and gas network and infrastructure for our islands in particular, is costly. And if we want to achieve a genuine energy union, then EU financing needs to be provided for more costly and more expensive infrastructure, such as, for example, hydrogen ready pipelines and also offshore floating renewable technologies, including offshore substations. Because we want to ensure that all member states, even those at the periphery of the European Union, can produce and consume clean, Affordable energy. Second point when it comes to grids, we support the proposal for the adoption of a European grid package. Investment in Grid should benefit from guidelines on anticipatory investments, while allowing national regulatory authorities sufficient flexibility. As a third point, we also welcome the proposed measures to simplify the tiny regulation, and here we must ensure that cost sharing mechanisms for cross-border projects do not disproportionately affect peripheral peripheral regions, including Ireland member states. And additionally, it is equally crucial that increased funding be made available for cross-border projects, including those with third countries. These initiatives, I believe, are key to strengthening the European energy network as a focal point. Another key measure that will drive prices down is the decoupling of electricity and gas prices, promoting power Purchasing agreements, supported by the right guarantees and guidelines is essential, and leveraging collective EU bargaining power and securing better deals at more favourable prices, including through joint purchasing of gas, has the potential to significantly reduce electricity prices.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you very much, chair. Malta also recognises the vital importance of these council conclusions and we can support the text. We acknowledge that the approach outlined in the conclusions shows a pathway to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce pollution as well, protect our biodiversity and support the development of a circular economy. How we said that it is vital that any future policy developments take into account scientific findings, what is economically feasible, and as also mentioned by our secret colleagues, the specific conditions in member states. In the spirit, we would wish to thank the presidency for further improving the text on water resilience. So to better reflect different circumstances and challenges faced by the member states. This was an issue which perhaps used to be of more interest to us on the Mediterranean. But as we head, we heard in our very interesting lunch, it is increasingly an issue for all member states. In this vein, we believe that a future initiative on water resilience must give due consideration to the variability of water availability in the union, specifically of semi arid states, which face a chronic lack of natural water resources. Such a strategy will help develop an enabling environment support semi arid and water insecure states to achieve sustainable water supplies. With that, we look forward to continuing to work with the commission and other member states on this area and others. Thank you.”
  EU policy on water management
• “Thank you. Attila. I'll go straight to the Draghi report, because we consider the Drudge Report a key contributor to discussions on enhancing European competitiveness. And we agree with the message that came across on the need to dismantle barriers to competition and support a thorough review, particularly in the energy sector. And it's interesting that in the Drudge Report, higher energy prices for end consumers are identified as one of the EU's greatest disadvantage. And as the report highlights, this is one of the main challenges that we believe we must continue focusing on moving forward. We need to tackle the high energy prices that our businesses and citizens have to incur as a matter of priority, because this places us at a disadvantage when compared to our non EU competitors. Now, while acknowledging the positive steps that have been made in the recent electricity market reform, we believe that further reforms to our wholesale market are needed to factor in the shares of renewable energy storage and also flexibility solutions. I also believe that tools such as PPA and also CFDs need to be more widespread to help decouple prices. We welcome Draghi's assessment related to connected and modernised gas and electricity grids. This assessment echoes the calls that Malta has been making over the past years. Increased investments, we believe, are key for equipping our businesses and citizens with actively priced and cleaner energy, leaving no one behind in this transition. And this is of increased importance for member states at the periphery of the continent like ours, which are still not connected to the European gas grid and which have limited electricity interconnectivity with mainland Europe. Interconnections cannot be implemented without strategic partnerships with other countries in our regions, and in this regard, I believe we need to properly look at the potential that lies on the shores of the Mediterranean. And here we call on the new commission to dedicate specific support for this course. As an island member state, I would like to emphasise that the EU needs to concretely recognise that although the cross-border impact of certain projects in island member states may be limited for the European Union as a whole, they are essential for the member States concerned and for the Union's energy security as a whole. So in this regard, I totally agree with the need to deploy more renewables to decrease our dependency on fossil fuels, increase competitiveness and enhance security of supply. We need to ensure availability and accessibility to clean technology, including offshore renewable technology, which so far has not yet reached market Viability, and in this regard, we need to leverage funding and maximize its availability. And we need to keep this in mind as we also enter negotiations on the new Multiannual Financial framework. Thanks a lot.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you, president. And I'd like to thank our Romanian colleagues for presenting this motion. Malta supports the request put forward by Romania because the Maltese producers are going through the same situation. As explained previously, this disruption is having negative consequences for farmers across the union. Therefore, Malta agrees that the aid mechanism should be triggered in order to alleviate the burdens being borne by these producers and to ensure that the pig sector remains a viable one. Thank you very much.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you very much, chair for giving me the floor. The nature restoration law has been the subject of extensive and difficult discussions at all levels. Discussions which have led us to the agreement with European parliament that we have before us. We have all had to make difficult choices and yet we believe a balanced compromise has been reached. One that is both ambitious but also provides important flexibilities that make the law implementable. For that reason, Malta will continue to support the nature restoration law. Thank you”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• “Thank you. I thank Cyprus for taking the initiative and put this item on the agenda. The Mediterranean Mediterranean region faces major risks from climate change, including floods, prolonged droughts and soil degradation, Asian, which threaten agriculture, food security, and rural livelihoods. For this reason, together with our Med9 colleagues, we have called for a more comprehensive and holistic approach to address these challenges. Stronger support is needed through the Water Resilience Strategy to address these urgent issues and safeguard ecosystems, cultures and food systems. Thank you.”
  EU policy on water management
• “Thank you chair. Malta takes note of the concerns raised by the German delegation and shows full solidarity with the challenges indicated. We sympathise with the position, in particular the pressures on the fisheries sector. These challenges are more significant on small scale fishermen. Limitations of insularity and the often family led nature of operations increase the impact of regulatory and economic burdens. We therefore support a more proportionate and pragmatic approach that takes these realities into account to ensure the sustainability and viability of the sector. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “Global protectionist trends and expanding cbam downstream risks further increasing costs and ultimately vehicle prices, which is particularly concerning for Malta as it relies significantly on imported vehicles. To this effect, Malta underlines the importance of grounding Europe's industrial transformation in cost effective low carbon energy solutions, proportionate regulation and efficient single market and policies that also address the distinct requirements of small and island economies. Strategic autonomy should be balanced with competitiveness and a stable investment climate, ensuring that we maintain an attractive destination for investment. For these reasons, we believe that the European preference approach must be limited in scope to the most strategic sectors to avoid unnecessary disruptions to our economies engaged in global trade. We must also ensure that the principles and commitments under the WTO and our trade agreements are not undermined, as we continue to firmly believe in the importance of competition and open trade on the international level, which has been a key contributor to the success of European industry over the years. Thank you.”
  Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
• “Thank you. President Malta agrees with the points raised by Spain regarding the difficulties in the implementation of the control regulation, particularly article 14 and the use of the catch system. While Malta is actively working to address the challenges we are facing in this regard, the application of certain obligations on fleets and small operators such as ours is resulting in various difficulties in Maltese context. Sea conditions and the characteristics of our smaller vessels make real time catch estimations extremely difficult, especially in mixed catches involving very small quantities. This creates a risk of unintentional non-compliance driven by further constraints. Malta therefore supports a pragmatic and proportionate review of these provisions to ensure effective control, while avoiding unnecessary administrative burden and safeguarding the core objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy. Thank you. Thank you.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Like to thank the Commission for presenting this package, which provides an overview of the main objectives for the future of our fisheries and aquaculture sectors. However, a more holistic insight on the contents of the package needs to be made, particularly in terms of implementation of measures and the viability of the sector in the short, mid and long term. The recovery of the Atlantic bluefin tuna stock is a successful example [00:01:30] of the implementation of the CFP, which was possible through the joint effort of our fishers and fisheries management authorities at all levels. Nonetheless, the EU's priorities should include measures that protect the environment while still safeguarding the future of the fishing and aquaculture industry. This is to ensure a sustainable and resilient fisheries sector, especially amongst the younger generations. We also want to highlight [00:02:00] the fact that a one size fits all approach is not always the best way forward, especially when considering that small scale fishing fleets make up the majority of the EU's fishing sector. In fact, Malta has already taken actions with regards to certain targets mentioned which were implemented according to the local and regional specificities. While additional efforts are needed, one cannot consider the EU as a single region in certain sea basins. The same fish resources are [00:02:30] being exploited together with other third parties that are not as committed to the same ambition of environmental protection and sustainable fisheries management as the EU.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Thank you chair. Malta recognizes the value of the Steel and Metals Action Plan in enhancing the Union's strategic autonomy and contributing towards industrial resilience. At the same time. Caution should be exercised to ensure that the measures are calibrated and proportionate, in line with the interests of downstream industry. A core pillar of our economy's balance is required to avoid an excessive cumulative impact of different measures and policies on sectors such as manufacturing and construction, particularly on SMEs, including in higher costs for Maltese industry and consumers. Energy affordability continues to represent a significant challenge, underscoring the need for more robust EU level mechanisms to guarantee access to competitively priced, low carbon electricity. This comparative disadvantage must be tackled to ensure the viability of the union's energy intensive industries. Eu level solutions must also ensure that smaller member states are not placed at a systemic competitive disadvantage, particularly as they are price takers in the global marketplace. On this note, we are especially attentive to the maiden Euro proposal in the upcoming Industrial Accelerator Act and the current discussions on the possible downstream application of Cbam. Turning to automotive, the package is important for European industry, but here too, implementation must remain proportionate without imposing excessive burdens on manufacturers across the supply chain.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you, chair. Malta feels that this renewal of the action plan is an opportunity so that the cooperation of the European Union focuses on a number of priorities where added value is more clear, sustainability and resilience of culture heritage, the improvement of mobility and the work of artists as well as inclusion are priority for Malta. We emphasize as well the need to have stronger relationships even with our neighbors, even on the Eastern part because of the developments that we are seeing and that we are open in terms of the multicultural level. Particular actions should not be prescriptive. We need flexibility so that we can draft, adapt, and implement the policies as we need in our context. Furthermore, national authorities need to work further and better within their own context, which cannot be reflected at a harmonized level. Therefore, we need to strengthen the consultative process. The proposals address, these aspects within the culture and, artistic aspects. The culture compass needs to be practical and needs to contribute to the European democracy action plan as well as the strengthening of the European Green Deal. The flexibility needs to remain central, and we have to realize that situations, affect countries in different ways. Therefore, we need to be adaptive and ready to face even the geopolitical and technological changes. Malta supports a realistic plan, which is, which allows flexibility to the member states and allows them respond to the emerging sociocultural changes. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Global protectionist trends and expanding cbam downstream risks further increasing costs and ultimately vehicle prices, which is particularly concerning for Malta as it relies significantly on imported vehicles. To this effect, Malta underlines the importance of grounding Europe's industrial transformation in cost effective low carbon energy solutions, proportionate regulation and efficient single market and policies that also address the distinct requirements of small and island economies. Strategic autonomy should be balanced with competitiveness and a stable investment climate, ensuring that we maintain an attractive destination for investment. For these reasons, we believe that the European preference approach must be limited in scope to the most strategic sectors to avoid unnecessary disruptions to our economies engaged in global trade. We must also ensure that the principles and commitments under the WTO and our trade agreements are not undermined, as we continue to firmly believe in the importance of competition and open trade on the international level, which has been a key contributor to the success of European industry over the years. Thank you.”
  Free trade agreements (FTAs) · Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
• “Dear Chair. Thank you. Malta welcomes the directive on soil monitoring and resilience that has been proposed. Malta understands the need of an EU wide, harmonised system to address the problem of soil degradation. However, we must also acknowledge the possible difficulty [00:27:30] in implementing certain parts of the Directive due to the specific characteristics and small scale heterogeneity of the Maltese soil. Thus, we believe it will be challenging to create an effective policy for our farmers to meet the obligations under this Directive. For this reason, we encourage you to evaluate the impact of this legislation on our farmers, as well as to study how to establish [00:28:00] and implement soil contamination criteria for effective live monitoring and evaluation. One such challenge challenge will be the administrative burden for small scale farmers that might mean or might have knock on effects on food security and affordability. Maltese soil is very susceptible to erosion. Thus, national specificities and agroclimatic [00:28:30] and geological characteristics must be considered when establishing criteria necessary for healthy soil. On your second question, we already have implemented various principles to protect our soil. Our national legislation stipulates that any soil related activity requires certification and our competent authorities carry out the necessary monitoring. The cap is another instrument [00:29:00] that helps us protect our soil, namely the agri environmental climate. Climate conditions, eco schemes and the good agricultural and environmental conditions. The guy see to protect soil using eco schemes, farmers can draw up soil management plans designed by a technical and qualified person and recognized by competent authorities. Furthermore, we have established farm [00:29:30] advisory services so that researchers and farmers can can jointly develop new agricultural practices. The aim of this project is to publish the first local integrated pest management program for five main crops. We also offer the services of the Agricultural Services Laboratory, where soil samples are examined for organic material. Lastly, [00:30:00] Motta acknowledges the importance of this proposal to sustainably manage soil. However, let's make sure not to negatively impact food security. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Global protectionist trends and expanding cbam downstream risks further increasing costs and ultimately vehicle prices, which is particularly concerning for Malta as it relies significantly on imported vehicles. To this effect, Malta underlines the importance of grounding Europe's industrial transformation in cost effective low carbon energy solutions, proportionate regulation and efficient single market and policies that also address the distinct requirements of small and island economies. Strategic autonomy should be balanced with competitiveness and a stable investment climate, ensuring that we maintain an attractive destination for investment. For these reasons, we believe that the European preference approach must be limited in scope to the most strategic sectors to avoid unnecessary disruptions to our economies engaged in global trade. We must also ensure that the principles and commitments under the WTO and our trade agreements are not undermined, as we continue to firmly believe in the importance of competition and open trade on the international level, which has been a key contributor to the success of European industry over the years. Thank you.”
  Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
• “Having said this, [00:23:00] and in the spirit of compromise, we believe that the text before us is a balanced one and a good basis for negotiations with the European Parliament. We do agree with ambition, but it needs to be reasonable and workable thereby without destabilizing the market and current investment plans. Projects on renewable energy are of utmost priority for our national energy security, and to our contribution to climate neutral of the EU by 2050. [00:23:30] For Malta to move forward in clean tech, foreign direct investment is fundamental and we need to ensure that the regulatory framework is predictable and stable. Moreover, we positively note the articles on sandboxes, and we would like to take this opportunity to inquire when guidelines in this case will be published. Another important political point for Malta has been the issuance of sustainable alternative [00:24:00] fuels and the related ramp up for the aviation and maritime sectors. This is an essential element directly related to our connectivity with the single market. Finally, I would like to thank you, Jordi and your team, both in Madrid and in Brussels, who are handling this critical dossier in such a professional manner. They are following up on the realities of both large and smaller member states to find a balance in the text. And therefore, once again, I would like [00:24:30] to congratulate all for the hard work. Thank you. **Spain @Chair [00:24:34] Thank you. Silvio. Next we have Dara from Ireland.”
  Decarbonisation of aviation sector · Decarbonisation of maritime transport
• “Thank you chair. Malta supports this point by Germany and Austria, as we believe that the country of origin labelling is a key tool to ensure that the sustainability of the local product [00:18:30] is guaranteed. On the other hand, we cannot exclude that such a proposal will also bring with it a number of challenges to design an effective legislative framework. Because some products can be produced, processed and packaged in more than one country. Therefore, the current regulatory framework of the European Union for the country of origin labelling is complex, fragmented and difficult for consumers to understand. Therefore, [00:19:00] we conclude by stressing that whilst we agree fully with this initiative to be taken into consideration, we must also see that flexibility and market incentives are maintained, while at the same time having a label that is easy to understand. Thank you. Merci.”
  Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
• “Thank you very much. Thank you. First of all, Ernest, and thank you also to the Commissioner. Thank you for taking this on, and I'm sure that we will be moving forward. Thank you for bringing to the fore this discussion regarding ways of improving the working conditions of artists and other cultural practitioners. This is a [00:41:00] recurring theme for which flexible approaches are needed. With no feasible one size fits all solution. We too agree that the cultural and creative sectors are important not only in terms of the product and services offered, but also as an economic factor of ever increasing proportion. Indeed, statistics show the sector's size, as well as its tenacity and resilience, kept growing even in the face [00:41:30] of a protracted pandemic and detrimental economic effects that followed. And it is also the whole sector that we need to take into account, not just artists. There's a big diversity in this workforce, and the diversity and flexibility is crucial in order to move forward. Also because it is very difficult to [00:42:00] regulate the working conditions in this sector, we believe that there needs to be incentives for the professionals in the sector. Also, due to more flexible working arrangements, Malta managed to do this by adopting by enacting a new tax system for 7.5 income tax system for artists [00:42:30] starting in 2022. This was coupled with a mechanism that incentivized artists. Also, opportunities for funds to encourage artists, producers and promoters in the pursuit of their artistic goals. As a result of these measures, the number of people employed in the culture and creative sectors in Malta more than doubled over the past decade, and by 13% [00:43:00] in one year alone. And so, in light of this, we believe that we need the flexibility that is needed to ensure that this sector recovers and we have to leave freedom to give freedom to the artists to work in the way that they best deem possible. Also, all the while ensuring artistic freedom. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “(18:15:46 – 18:17:00): My my my reply on this can be quite direct and quite short. Any conversation, any communication that we have with stakeholders, whether it's government or any other party remains confidential. But I can confirm that there was communication, and there is communication that is ongoing. And so far as the potential tools that we will use, we will explore using all leverage that we have, both on this issue but also on other issues beyond the cultural sector. And then on the position taken by minister Julie, I appreciate very much the fact that the minister has been firm and strong in his communication, also not attending the opening of the Biennale. And I I I really appreciate the fact that he was so clear in in this respect, although I note with regret that this has not been the stance for other ministers in the Italian government. Again, my position on this is aligned with that of the wider cultural community and member states and council today who spoke quite clearly on this issue. Minister, you wanna add something?”
  EU relations with the Southern Neighbourhood
• “Thank you, presidency. And thank you, colleagues, for putting forward this AOB on such an important topic. We believe that as the primary framework for managing fisheries and safeguarding marine resources, the CFP has delivered tangible results over the years. It has strengthened fisheries governance, supported the recovery of fish stocks in EU waters, enhanced sustainability and circularity, reduced waste and reinforced science based management, all while supporting the viability of our coastal communities. However, Malta joins other member states in recognising that the time has come to review and update the CFP. The sector today faces new and evolving environmental, social and economic challenges which require a modern and flexible policy framework. A revised CFP would enable a more. Effective, inclusive and comprehensive approach to fisheries management, one that takes full account of the diversity of realities across our Member States, and that strengthens the long term sustainability and resilience of the EU's fisheries sectors. Thank you very much.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Maltese and Godstone farmers, too welcomed with appreciation the proposal to find alternative products before removing Pesticides from the market. Furthermore, Malta agrees with the way the vision looks at trade agreements with third countries. Malta recognises that in the interest of the Union's food supply and food security, to have access to products from third countries. However, Malta recognises the importance to step up the union's response to further strengthen controls on imported products and at the union itself, should be more sensitive and continue protecting the competitiveness of European producers during trade agreement negotiations. Moving on to the second question, we we understand that the the primary role of our farmers is to produce food, and this should remain a crucial point in the next cap. While Malta agrees in principle that alternative means of income should be found for our producers, we note that many of the proposals may be restrictive in countries like Malta, where land is so scarce. Furthermore, Malta believes that if we truly want to encourage our farmers to try different practices, the new cap, we need to go beyond the concept of foregone income and incentivize farmers to take the risk of changing their practices. Regarding the third question, Malta believes that the agricultural sector needs a transformation towards generational renewal, sustainability and digitalisation, where innovation is a common element. We also welcome a number of measures proposed in this vision, including specific strategies for the bioeconomy, generational renewal and water resilience. These are crucial to ensuring the long term sustainability of agricultural and food systems. Finally, Malta looks forward to seeing and contributing to how the ambitions of this vision will be realized and implemented in practice. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “20:13 – 17:21:57): Thank you, presidency, for the opportunity to address this council on a matter of strategic importance to our union, the future of the combined transport directive. The combined transport directive was designed to shift freight from roads to more sustainable modes. Its objective remains as relevant as ever, but the current framework is no longer fit for purpose in today's realities. Furthermore, its rigid distance based criteria fail to reflect the realities of island and peripheral member states. The commission's recourse proposal offered genuine promise. It recognized the environmental potential, the economic benefits, and ensured that peripheral and geographically disadvantaged regions are not left behind in the single market. This is why Malta is deeply concerned by the commission's intention to withdraw this proposal. MoTA acknowledges the complexity and the difficult negotiations held within council, but underlines that these should not be regarded as failed negotiations. Several avenues remain unexplored, including hybrid models, enhanced flexibility clauses, and differentiated approaches that respect geographic diversity. We, therefore, urge the commission to allow more time for those discussions to unfold, and we call on incoming presidencies to place this debate back on the agenda with fresh determination. The administers the free transport sector, our climate commitments, and the integrity of our single market all demand that we do not give up on this reform. Mota san is ready to engage constructively. We ask for the same resolve from our colleagues around this table. Thank you, chair.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you. Malta. Thanks the Portuguese delegation for bringing up this important [00:03:30] discussion in view of the volatile global situation that is impacting the fisheries and aquaculture sectors across the whole value chain. Malta joins the calls for increased flexibility in MFF for these exceptional cases, and believes that prolonging the period of eligibility would be helpful to assist the sector in this regard. Malta supports this proposal and deems it is crucial to ensure flexibility, especially [00:04:00] when considering the cost scope of MFF. Increasing sectoral resilience, promoting diversity, and advancing research and development are some of the core principles of MFF. Hence, Malta believes it is imperative to allow flexibility to maintain sectoral competitiveness by minimising the financial and operational impacts.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “Thank [00:18:00] you very much. I would like to thank you. We recognise the progress that has been carried out recently on our end. We're still going through our consultations on the possible impact of this proposal on our territory. We believe that specific attention should be given for those cases where the circumstances can lead to certain risks. With the introduction of this technology and its possible amplification of these repercussions with special geographic and evolutionary isolated ecosystems with rare and fragile endemic flora. We also need to assess how this structure of our agricultural systems, specifically the organic sector, can coexist given our small island specificities. Moreover, the issue of patenting and access is something we need to further discuss. We look forward to contributing to further discussions. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Thank you Stephanie. I also would like to wish you a successful and productive presidency. Um, let me begin by expressing Malta's strong support for the efforts to reach a timely agreement on the digital euro and the broader single currency package. We firmly believe that the earlier we reach a political consensus, the better, not only to provide clarity to the market and citizens at large, but also to maintain a strategic momentum. However, while rapid is important, we must ensure that we allow sufficient time for careful deliberation. This is a complex issue, and thus it is crucial that the final legal text is clear, coherent, and future proof. Turning to the specific outstanding issues, we share the view that the key points of contention remain around the following. The governance over the holding limits. The decision making process for the launch of the Digital Euro, as well as concerns surrounding privacy and compensation. These are not merely technical matters, they are politically significant. They are important aspects of the digital euro project that must be well addressed to ensure a successful uptake of the digital euro. Looking further, Malta believes that another critical element that requires our attention is the degree of involvement of the Council in key decisions, particularly those concerning the timing and formal introduction of the digital Euro. Given the strategic weight of this initiative for the euro area and its broader implications for euros international role, we believe a well calibrated balance must be struck. This includes thoughtful consideration of the Council's role in relevant implementing acts. Where appropriate. To conclude, while the goals we have set are undoubtedly ambitious, Malta remains confident that through sustained dialogue and close cooperation, we can collectively address these challenges and establish a regulatory framework for the digital euro that is both forward looking and secure. Thank you.”
  Digital euro
• “Good afternoon, Madam Chair. Thank you colleagues. I'd like to start from the title itself. The two words inclusion and cohesion. And both are crucial to Epsco. Inclusion should be at the root of all politics. Our role is mainly that of bringing those on the fringes of our society more to the heart of our social policies. And I think we all agree. Not having a roof surely puts you on the fringe. And that illustrates even more what has been said that social issues are, or rather, housing issues are social issues indeed. Having having said that, I think that we we all agree that the national competencies should be there. If I look at my own country, I come from a country where over 80% of the Maltese population are homeowners. From those 80%, three quarters of them do not have a loan on their homes. So that is something which we keep in mind when doing social policy. Yet that said, there are always issues. There are always those on the fringes, and it is for those that we need to aim most particularly. It has been mentioned quite a number of times. The vulnerable groups, the vulnerable groups who find it more difficult to have a roof over their head. And I would like to hear that, at least in our case, we tend to divide social housing from affordable housing.”
  EU housing policy
• “While food leftover in farmers markets will start to be converted to compost for farmers use. Incentives like this are the basis of the bioeconomy and we should continue to encourage such initiatives. We also believe that we need to go deeper and have a stricter policy. Also regarding the use of secondary products generated from agriculture like manure. We reiterate our position that the use of vinegar as a fertilizer can help us transition towards a circular economy, since this is a viable alternative that increases the supply of much needed fertilizers. This could also lessen the expenses for European farmers and reduce the European Union's dependence on third countries for fertilizers, but more discussions are required to ensure that there is a lesser impact on the environment. Regarding on how we can strengthen the products coming from the European Union's bioeconomy. This should be focused on the quality and the standards of the product. Like any other product, however, it's important to have a balance between the products from the bioeconomy and those that do not. I conclude by saying that the bioeconomy is important, especially in a context where food security and the reduction of waste is very important on a national and international Personal agenda, and it means that the agriculture and the economy should complement each other. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers · Food waste
• “Grazie, maestro. Thank you, president. And thank you to the Slovenian delegation. Malt agrees on the importance of increasing animal welfare standards. It is important that measures can be implemented in every member state. Therefore, we need a certain degree of flexibility. In recent months, Malta has actively contributed [00:23:30] to the discussions on the new proposal for the regulation on the Welfare of Dogs and cats, and we are ready to contribute to the discussions on the proposal of the regulation on the Protection of Animals during transport. We look forward to working with our colleagues on this very important subject. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers