VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela has affirmed that Malta will press ahead with its programme to ensure stability and peace of mind for families, despite escalating tensions in the Gulf.
Speaking during a high-level meeting at the Auberge de Castille, the Prime Minister said the government was monitoring international developments on an hourly basis, while strengthening contingency plans to protect citizens and businesses.
In a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, Abela stressed that Malta remains a safe country and is well placed to turn international challenges into opportunities. He highlighted Malta’s neutrality and absence of military bases as key pillars underpinning national security and investor confidence.
Updates were delivered by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Ian Borg, alongside contributions from several ministers and senior officials.
The government confirmed that 215 individuals have sought assistance from Malta’s Consular Directorate, with 169 currently in the United Arab Emirates and others mainly in Qatar. Evacuation plans are in place and will be activated once airspace reopens in affected areas.
The meeting also assessed potential economic repercussions. Officials said Malta’s diversified energy sector and hedging agreements are ensuring stability, supported by subsidies designed to cushion external shocks.
Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said rising international oil prices linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran would not be reflected in local power and fuel prices.
Addressing the nation earlier, Abela told parliament the government would shield the economy from the impact of the Gulf war, while continuing to implement the Malta 2050 Vision and prioritising families’ quality of life.
Authorities added that digital infrastructure is being safeguarded and supply chains are expected to remain stable despite disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal.
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(ITALPRESS).
