On 14 September, Deputy Prime Minister Radosław Sikorski met in Warsaw with Malta’s Foreign Minister Chris Fearn. They discussed the most important challenges for Europe’s security, including the consequences of Russia’s aggression on Ukraine. Deputy Prime Minister Sikorski underlined that despite the neutrality enshrined in its constitution, Malta has supported the EU’s subsequent sanction packages following Russia’s aggression on Ukraine.  He recalled Malta’s key role in the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine.

In these turbulent times, Europe needs not only greater defence capabilities, but also a moral backbone to stand up for what's right

- said Deputy Prime Minister Sikorski.

The chief diplomats also spoke about the situation in the Middle East and the challenges to the security and stability of the Mediterranean.

An important item on the agenda was the protection of critical infrastructure, particularly marine critical infrastructure. Poland and Malta have tapped into their experiences and geostrategic location to develop cooperation in enhancing critical infrastructure’s security and resilience.

The ministers also talked about Polish–Maltese relations. Mutual trade has increased substantially since our countries joined the EU. In 2005 total trade amounted to EUR 13.6 million, while between January and November 2024 it was EUR 182.7 million. The two top diplomats identified areas to strengthen cooperation between their countries in the years to come.

Debate on the future of Europe

On the second day of Foreign Minister Fearn’s visit, the two officials took part in a panel: “Nationhood and Bilateral Relations: Malta and Poland in Europe” held at the Norblin Factory by the Embassy of Malta in Warsaw.

The debate focused on the importance of national identity and sovereignty, and on the relation between the interests of member states and the process of European integration. The participants also discussed Poland’s and Malta’s experiences following more than two decades of EU membership, as well as opportunities for further deepening cooperation between the two countries.

An important point of the discussion were the different regional perspectives of Poland and Malta. Poland highlighted the challenges related to Europe’s security and its eastern flank, whilst Malta emphasised the importance of the European Union’s southern neighbourhood and the challenges facing the Mediterranean. Both perspectives show the importance of dialogue and cooperation between member states with the view of building a stronger and more resilient European Union.

Besides the two foreign ministers, the panel moderated by Ambassador of Malta to Poland Gavin Gulia was also attended by former EU commissioner Tonio Borg and Malta’s former foreign minister Alex Sceberras Trigona.

The participants also had the opportunity to see a special exhibition on Malta at the ArtBox Experience. The event gave visitors an insight into Malta’s history, culture, heritage, and cuisine.