Malta and Slovakia are set to deepen their cooperation on European policy, with Foreign and European Affairs Ministers Chris Fearne and Juraj Blanár discussing areas where the two countries can work more closely ahead of the 2030 Council Presidency cycle.

The talks focused on a number of issues with direct implications for the European business and economic environment, including the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework, competitiveness and migration.

The two ministers also explored how Malta and Slovakia can coordinate their positions on common European challenges while taking into account the different economic and geographical realities of individual Member States.

“Malta and Slovakia may have different realities, but we share a strong interest in a European Union that listens to all its Member States and delivers practical solutions to the challenges we face together,” Malta’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and European Policy said.

The ministers also discussed migration and the wider challenges facing the European Union, alongside the security situation in Ukraine and Europe’s broader security environment.

Minister Chris Fearne emphasised the importance of taking a 360-degree approach to European security, recognising the challenges on the EU’s eastern flank while also maintaining attention on stability in the Mediterranean, particularly in relation to Libya.

The meeting also marked the start of closer coordination between Malta and Slovakia ahead of the 2030 Council Presidency Trio, when the two countries will work alongside the Netherlands.

Both ministers agreed that early cooperation and regular coordination will be important in developing a strong working relationship and contributing to an effective and coherent Presidency cycle.

The Presidency Trio system allows three successive Council presidencies to work together around common priorities, providing greater continuity in the EU’s policy agenda.

The two sides also discussed the importance of maintaining an effective institutional balance within the European Union. Both ministers agreed that every Member State, regardless of size, should retain an effective and equal voice in shaping European decisions.

During his official visit to Malta, Minister Blanár also held a courtesy meeting with President Myriam Spiteri Debono at San Anton Palace, accompanied by Minister Fearne. He also met with Speaker of the House of Representatives Carmelo Abela at the Parliament of Malta.