“We must ensure that the commercial relations of the European Union with the United States remain robust, ambitious, and mutually beneficial for both continents. Malta welcomes this renewed commitment and considers it important to continue working for stronger transatlantic cooperation”, stated the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg during his address at the Foreign Affairs Council meeting related to trade in Brussels.
Minister Borg claimed that it is essential to focus their work on the implementation of what was agreed upon in the Trade and Technology Council with the United States. There is a need for more results, particularly in ensuring secure supply chains, including in the semiconductor sector, the supply chains in the digital sectors, and SMEs.
“Malta is in favour of strengthening the EU’s free trade network, improving market access and creating potential for growth and new jobs. The EU must show the world that it is open for business and that is why the EU’s free trade agreements are now more important than ever.” This was stated by Minister Borg, whilst he urged for the rapid conclusion of pending EU trade agreements with Chile, Mexico, and Mercosur and to continue work on the agreement with Australia, adding that an FTA with India would also have significant potential.
During the discussion related to Ukraine, Minister Borg recalled that it remains crucial to continue to ensure that exports of critical products, such as grains and fuels to the European Union (EU) and to developing countries that require these products, are guaranteed.
Minister Borg reiterated Malta’s commitment towards a coordinated response to the Russian aggression against Ukraine and the EU’s efforts to support the economic sustainability of Ukraine through our commercial policy.
Finally, Minister Borg expressed Malta’s support to the EU’s commitment and leadership role in the reform of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). A strong WTO is essential for effective multilateral rules-based trading system.
Source: Office of the Prime Minister