LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has left the door open for a potential return to Maltese politics, insisting that she is always ready to serve wherever needed. In an interview aired last night on Malta’s national television, Metsola reaffirmed her commitment to her homeland, saying, “I always take responsibility and I will always serve where I am needed.” The EP President further clarified that she had never truly left Maltese politics despite her prominent role in European institutions.
During the interview, Metsola did not hold back in her criticism of Prime Minister Robert Abela, particularly concerning Malta’s defence spending. Metsola accused Abela of hypocrisy following his recent remarks that Malta would not be increasing its defence budget. “In reality, defence spending has doubled in recent years,” she stated, pointing out the contradictions in the Prime Minister’s public stance. Metsola also reminded the public that Abela had been the sole vote in favour of increasing defence spending and had cast doubt on Malta’s neutrality by participating in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. She also referenced Malta’s contribution of a military officer to assist Ukraine in its fight against Russia.
Turning to Maltese domestic politics, Metsola stressed the need for comprehensive reform across all political parties in Malta. She highlighted the necessity for change in how parties are financed and how the media operates in the country. One key area she identified for reform was the structure of the Maltese parliament. “Malta remains the only EU member state with part-time MPs,” Metsola remarked, calling for a system where MPs work full-time to better serve their constituents.
On gender equality, Metsola sharply criticized the gender-corrective mechanism introduced in the lead-up to the 2022 General Election. She described the measure as “the biggest insult to women,” claiming that it had clearly failed to address the issues it was meant to resolve.
The interview then shifted to international matters. While Metsola refrained from directly criticizing former U.S. President Donald Trump, she acknowledged that his leadership required adaptation. “I understand his goal was to protect the domestic US market, but a trade war is not the solution,” she said, referring to Trump’s tariffs on European goods. Metsola noted that such tensions had already resulted in a trade war back in 2017, which ultimately benefited no one.
When asked about the situation in Gaza, Metsola reaffirmed the European Parliament’s commitment to humanitarian aid and the push for a permanent ceasefire. She emphasized that the EP had been vocal in sending more aid to Gaza and calling for the release of hostages. Regarding the control of Gaza by Hamas, Metsola made it clear that she did not see the group’s leadership as a step toward resolving the conflict.
As for her future, Metsola’s statements suggest she remains deeply connected to Maltese politics and is watching developments closely, all while balancing her duties on the European stage.
-Foto IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).
