Minister Byron Camilleri ‘Fully Concurs’ With Abela’s EU Defence Spending Criticism
Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri has said he fully concurs with Prime Minister Robert Abela’s recent criticism of calls for the EU to ramp up its defence budget.
“Malta’s policy is to actively pursue peace, security, and social progress amongst all nations,” a spokesperson for Camilleri told Lovin Malta.
“The Minister fully concurs with the Prime Minister’s comments, specifically that more emphasis is to be placed on resolving conflicts peacefully rather than on aiding wars.”
Asked whether he believes the EU should increase its defence budget or not, the minister didn’t give a direct answer.
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“As regards discussions at EU level, the Maltese government will continue to advocate the principle of dialogue and conflict resolution while always being constructive,” he said.
“It is our obligation as a neutral state to pursue non-military solutions.”
“Malta has actively embraced this principle and has supported sanctions where necessary and contributed funds to non-military spending and humanitarian aid. The EU must respect the security and defence policy of all member states.”
The Maltese government has regularly voted in favour of European Council resolutions for higher defence spending in recent years.
However, Abela last weekend criticised calls by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech for the EU to ramp up its defence spending.
“While others want EU countries to spend more on weapons, we care about investing in people,” the Prime Minister told a political rally.
Should the EU increase its defence budget?
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