TAORMINA (MESSINA) (ITALPRESS/MEDNEWS) – Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, called for accelerated efforts towards EU enlargement on the 70th anniversary of the Messina Conference.
Speaking at the event hosted by Italy, Ian Borg emphasised that in today’s climate of shifting alliances and growing security threats, expanding the Union is a strategic priority. “EU enlargement is not just an option; it is a necessity. We must ensure the process is completed effectively,” he said.
Malta, a longstanding advocate for closer European ties, used the occasion to underline the importance of keeping momentum in the enlargement process, which has gained new energy in recent years after a long period of stagnation. Borg addressed ministers and representatives from EU candidate countries, including Albania, Ukraine, and Serbia, stressing that their ongoing reforms and aspirations are recognised.
“You are part of the European family,” he affirmed, while urging a shared responsibility between the EU and aspiring members. He welcomed the European Commission’s plans for pre-accession policy reviews, describing them as vital to strengthening the Union’s strategic independence and focusing on citizens’ needs.
Malta also pushed for gradual integration steps that would allow people in candidate countries to experience the tangible benefits of EU membership early in the process, building support for eventual full accession.
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(ITALPRESS)
