Malta’s message in the field of foreign policy and to the international community must always be one in favour of peace, diplomacy, respect for human rights, and respect for international law by all states—especially those with the greatest military and economic power.

We, as Maltese and Gozitans, must strongly believe in, and promote, multilateralism not only because it is inherently good, but because it is in our interest as one of the world’s smallest sovereign states to enjoy equal respect and an equal voice at the decision-making table with the big global players.

Multilateralism in the sphere of foreign affairs by definition technically refers to the practice of multiple sovereign States of working together to address global issues,  promote shared interests, and manage International Relations through cooperation and dialogue.

An advantage of multilateralism is that global problems can only be truly solved through multilateral approaches. This contributes to reducing the risk of conflict, as has been the case over the past circa seventy years of history of mankind. There is no doubt that we must learn from the terrible conflicts of the twentieth century. Otherwise, we will truly have learned nothing from the humanity’s recent history. Multilateralism promotes stability and encourages a predictable, rules-based international order.

Malta’s constitutional neutrality is a fundamental principle of our foreign policy and must be strongly embraced by all. This does not mean that we remain passive in the face of events around us. Malta has, in fact, taken a clear position on Ukraine and also in favour of the Iranian people’s right to self-determination. This distinguishes us from many other sovereign nations and undoubtedly promotes us as agents of multilateralism on the global stage.

All of this must be viewed within the context of Malta as a Member State of the European Union. This fact gives us significant relevance and added value. It is important that Malta continues to work in synergy with other EU Member States and supports a coordinated approach to foreign policy. I have always stressed, both in Malta and abroad, that the European Union must adopt swift responses in foreign policy, when necessary, and speak with one strong and unified voice.

It is only in this manner that we, as Maltese, can continue to strengthen the principles of state sovereignty and equality—two principles that protect Malta as a small state while ensuring that we have an equal voice at the table. In this manner, Malta can demonstrate that it firmly rejects power politics and fully embraces multilateralism, in line with its history in foreign policy since the acquisition of its Independence in 1964!

Author: Edward Zammit Lewis – Former Minister, MP and Chairperson of the Foreign & European Affairs Committee