Key #EUCO decisions on European competitiveness & the Single Market. Equal access for all Europeans to Single Market benefits & commitment to competitive decarbonisation for businesses. - RA

Started the day by meeting my friend Pedro Sánchez on current issues in the Middle East. From fostering peace to prioritising humanitarian aid, stability remains paramount for our Mediterranean region. - RA

In Brussels for #EUCO Summit. Key talks on economy & competitiveness issues, Ukraine, Turkey & the Middle East. 🇲🇹 will continue to advocate for peace & equal access to the Single Market for all European citizens. - RA

Today w/Charles Michel & 4 EUCO members in Vienna, continuing consultations on the Strategic Agenda guiding 🇪🇺 for next 5 years. Our input is crucial in setting priorities for peace, trade, and sustainable growth. Connectivity, SMEs, & strategic sectors are key. - RA

Together with 🇪🇸🇮🇪🇸🇮 we agreed to recognise the Palestinian State when conditions are appropriate & circumstances can contribute to the successful peace process.We also agreed on the need of an immediate ceasefire,release of hostages & increase of humanitarian aid into Gaza. - RA

PM Robert Abela in Brussels for the #EUCO EU Council meeting. More info👉consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/eu…

In Brussels for #EUCO . 🇲🇹 stands for peace - a value it will advocate for, particularly amidst discussions concerning Ukraine, Middle East and security and defence. In discussions on the agricultural sector, will emphasise 🇪🇺’s role in bolstering support for farmers. - RA

After the initial indications, Eurostat figures for February have confirmed that our Stabbiltà programme has lowered inflation greatly. Our economic policies continue making a real difference where it matters. - RA

🇲🇹 stands proud in welcoming the first-ever Biennale, a celebration of art under the esteemed patronage of UNESCO 🏛️ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳. Heartfelt appreciation to Heritage Malta & Arts Council Malta for their relentless efforts in infusing this event with the vibrant spirit of our artistic community.-RA

Growth forecast for 2024 (%):

🇲🇹 4.6
🇷🇴 2.9
🇨🇾 2.8
🇵🇱 2.7
🇭🇷 2.6
🇭🇺 2.4
🇬🇷 2.3
🇸🇰 2.3
🇱🇹 2.1
🇧🇬 1.9
🇸🇮 1.9
🇪🇸 1.7
🇱🇻 1.7
🇧🇪 1.4
🇱🇺 1.3
🇮🇪 1.2
🇵🇹 1.2
🇨🇿 1.1
🇪🇺 0.9
🇫🇷 0.9
🇩🇰 0.9
🇮🇹 0.7
🇦🇹 0.6
🇪🇪 0.6
🇫🇮 0.6
🇳🇱 0.4
🇩🇪 0.3
🇸🇪 0.2

Winter #ECForecast ↓

While the Commission revised down the prospects for the EU, its experts once again concluded that Malta’s expansion will be higher than previously expected. They also lowered the expected path of inflation. Progressive decisions make a real difference in people’s lives. - RA

Officially confirmed! 2023 has been a record year for tourism in 🇲🇹 on all fronts - record number of guests & guest nights, coupled with a record spend of €2.7 billion. We will continue implementing 🇲🇹's strategy aimed at achieving stronger results & increasing quality. - RA

Positive talks with 🇹🇷 FM Hakan Fidan delving into ways to strengthen trade ties and deepen co-operation, especially on renewable energy. Our dialogue extended on Ukraine & the Middle East. Government of Malta 🇲🇹’s commitment persists in advocating for a lasting truce & upholding int. law.-RA

Grazzi Malta🇲🇹

Crucial deal reached to ensure #EU budget is fit to continue supporting our priorities. On the dire situation in Middle East - #Gaza cannot be ignored. For the #EU to be credible, it must live up to its role as a beacon of hope & a champion of human rights. - RA

Arrived in Brussels for the special #EUCO summit. Discussions will focus on the mid-term review of the financial framework and the Middle East. Malta’s call for peace and security remains, as stability in Europe is key for our country and the rest of the region. - RA

The IMF’s Executive Board praised 🇲🇹’s impressive recovery & our resilience to shocks. Continued reforms, together with our policy of fiscal support, are key to these results. Directors also welcomed progress in our AML/CFT framework, digitalisation & the green transition. - RA

Had a positive meeting with Janusz Wojciechowski, EU Commissioner for EU Agriculture🌱. Our talks centered on sustaining support for Maltese farmers and promoting eco-friendly practices, ensuring both nutrition and food security. - RA

Malta launches its OSCE Chairpersonship, committed to #StrengtheningResilience & #EnhancingSecurity . CiO Ian Borg addresses key issues and outlines 🇲🇹 priorities. Read the full press release here 👇🏼

osce.org/chairpersonshi…

The approval for the development of the second interconnector project is a major leap towards a sustainable energy sector. This advancement opens doors to greater investments in renewable energy, aligning with our climate goals & enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.-RA