Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg joined EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg for the April Foreign Affairs Council, where they held talks with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. During the meeting, Borg reiterated Malta’s support for “the government and the people of Lebanon” as they work towards stability and security in difficult regional circumstances.
While welcoming the temporary ceasefire and ongoing negotiations involving Israel, Lebanon and the United States, Borg said that “the harm inflicted on innocent civilians is unacceptable.” He warned that the recent violence is threatening Lebanon’s fragile progress, especially in relation to reforms. Malta also confirmed its support for restoring Lebanon’s full state authority, including the disarmament of Hezbollah in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.
Borg stressed that “meaningful dialogue” remains essential for de-escalation and said decisions taken in the coming period will shape the crisis and the wider region’s stability. He also expressed solidarity with UNIFIL peacekeepers after the recent fatal attack in southern Lebanon.
The same EU meeting also addressed Iran, Ukraine and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. Borg called for continued pressure on Russia, support for Ukraine, and diplomatic engagement to protect freedom of navigation. How important do you think diplomacy is in reducing tensions across conflict-hit regions?
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