The Speaker of the House of Representatives met with the ambassadors of Arab and Islamic countries accredited to Malta, including representatives from Palestine, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, the Arab League, and Türkiye. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss regional developments in the Middle East, the importance of diplomatic dialogue and ways to strengthen parliamentary cooperation between Malta and these countries.
During the discussion, the ambassadors expressed concern about the situations in Palestine, Yemen, Iran and the Gulf region, highlighting the need for a more effective international response and concrete action to achieve peaceful and just solutions. They also stressed the need to move beyond statements and ensure the international community takes meaningful steps to address the region's challenges.
The Speaker emphasised the role of parliamentary diplomacy in building stronger relationships between countries, particularly in the Mediterranean, which should be viewed as a space that connects peoples rather than divides them. He also underlined the importance of multilateralism and Malta's active participation in international forums to strengthen the country's credibility and foster trust and cooperation with other nations.
The meeting also explored opportunities to enhance cooperation between the Maltese Parliament and the parliaments of Arab and Islamic countries. Proposed avenues included engagement through the Committee for Foreign and European Affairs, exchanges of views and more structured parliamentary friendship groups. The Speaker also highlighted Parliament's ability to contribute through debate, dialogue and solidarity initiatives.
The meeting concluded with a shared emphasis on maintaining open channels of communication and regular contact between Malta and Arab and Islamic countries. The aim is to strengthen bilateral and parliamentary relations, encourage continued diplomatic engagement and promote peace, stability and mutual understanding across the Mediterranean region and beyond.
