Prime Minister Robert Abela has pushed back against the introduction of new EU taxes while calling for stronger funding for Malta and other member states during a two-day European Council summit in Brussels.European leaders gathered to discuss the EU’s long-term budget for 2028–2034, energy prices, competitiveness, migration, the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and the possibility of further EU enlargement.Ahead of the summit, Abela joined representatives from 17 member states that consider cohesion funding a priority, with the countries agreeing to push for an ambitious, balanced and fair EU budget.During the discussions, Abela stressed that cohesion funding must remain strong enough to support all member states, regardless of their size or particular circumstances.He also reiterated Malta’s opposition to new EU taxes and called for practical solutions that reflect the challenges faced by the agricultural sector.On energy, Abela highlighted Malta’s unique position as an island nation, pointing to its lack of a gas interconnection and reliance on regular supplies from abroad. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lovin Malta (@lovinmalta)While reaffirming Malta’s commitment to climate targets, he argued that the country needs flexibility to continue supporting households and businesses amid international energy price pressures.Turning to Ukraine, Abela expressed concern over Russia’s continued attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. He also condemned recent attacks on Maltese-flagged vessels, particularly in the Black Sea, stressing that commercial ships and civilian crews should never be targeted.On the Middle East, the Prime Minister called for humanitarian access, respect for international law and continued efforts towards a two-state solution.Migration was another major topic, with Abela urging the effective implementation of the EU’s new Migration and Asylum Pact, stronger action against migrant-smuggling networks and closer cooperation with third countries to increase returns and reduce irregular arrivals.The summit also addressed EU enlargement, with Abela insisting that candidate countries should progress towards membership based on their individual achievements rather than political considerations.European leaders also welcomed ongoing work on Montenegro’s draft accession treaty.The discussions come as Malta and other member states seek to secure their priorities in the EU’s next seven-year budget, which will shape funding and investment across the bloc from 2028 onwards.Video credits to @robertabela.mt•