News • 16 February 2003

AD favours Malta as a Neutral EU Member State

The Green Party has expressed its position in favour of Malta as a neutral state within the European Union.
Deputy Chairperson Mario Mallia explained how Malta’s neutrality will not only be safeguarded within the EU, but can also be strengthened.
"Alternattiva Demokratika welcomes the declaration attached to the treaty between Malta and the EU that confirms Malta’s neutrality will not be affected by EU membership.
"We also welcome the fact that no-one else but our country will decide whether to participate in peace-keeping and humanitarian missions, and that individual soldiers will be able to decide for themselves should they want to participate," Mallia said.
The Green party continues to hold a strong position against militarism: "Alternattiva Demokratika believes our country should remain free from military bases. In the event of conflict – as could happen in Iraq – Malta should not allow itself to be used warships and military facilities involved in the conflict. The use of Maltese forces in foreign countries should be limited to participation in missions authorised by the United Nations and the l-OSCE," Mallia explained.
"Our country should embrace active neutrality and serve as an active agent for world peace through commercial, cultural and social ties that safeguard human rights and the environment."
"Peace and security cannot be defended through threats or the use of military force. True peace can only be achieved through the prevention of conflict and through the recognition of the social, economic and cultural roots of international conflict. AD – The Green Party opposes all forms of isolationism and agrees with Malta’s active participation in all levels of co-operation except for military co-operation. This can only be achieved through active neutrality within the context of Malta’s constitutional neutrality."
"The Green Party believes Malta’s Constitution should reflect the present situation and declare Malta a nuclear-free state.
"Ships that are powered by nuclear energy should be denied from entering Maltese waters."
"Alternattiva Demokratika believes that Malta’s neutrality can be strengthened by EU membership. Being a neutral country, Malta can serve as a voice in favour of peace within the European structures and participate in peacekeeping activity while refusing to take part in military action.
"If Malta does not join the EU, it would have very little power to make its voice heard within the European foreign policy context. The best choice for Malta is to join the most progressive bloc in the world, within which human rights are protected and where peace and stability have reigned for many years."