A Maltese delegation composed of Carmelo Abela and Jerome Caruana Cilia attended an Inter-Parliamentary Committee Meeting of the Foreign Affairs Committee on 19 February 2025 in Brussels. The meeting, held at the European Parliament, was structured into two sessions focusing on key geopolitical issues facing the European Union.
The first session, entitled “Transatlantic Relations in Challenging Times”, explored the resilience of the transatlantic partnership in the face of geopolitical challenges such as Russia, China, and Ukraine, as well as the ongoing struggle between democracy and autocracy. With the new Trump Administration in the United States, the session discussed strategies for maintaining a strong and mutually beneficial transatlantic agenda while ensuring the defence of the EU’s legitimate interests. Participants exchanged views on the way forward in EU-US relations and opportunities for foreign policy cooperation under the incoming administration.
The second session, “Towards a Multipolar World – What Role for the European Union?” examined the EU’s position in an era of geopolitical realignments and the rise of a multipolar world. The discussion focused on how the EU could balance its commitment to multilateralism and democratic values with the pressures of Realpolitik. It also explored the EU’s potential as a bridge-builder, standard-setter, and force for stability in an increasingly complex international landscape.
Carmelo Abela and Jerome Caruana Cilia actively participated in both sessions, representing Malta’s perspectives and priorities on foreign affairs and the EU’s global role. Their involvement underscored Malta’s commitment to contributing to the EU’s efforts to strengthen transatlantic relations and redefine its position in a multipolar world.
The Maltese delegation engaged with fellow parliamentarians and stakeholders to exchange ideas and best practices, reinforcing Malta’s active role in shaping the future of the EU’s foreign policy and its engagement on the global stage.
