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maltatoday | SUNDAY • 9 FEBRUARY 2025
NEWS
MALTA needs to be prepared for
emerging security threats, particu-
larly cyberattacks and energy dis-
ruptions, ADPD chairperson San-
dra Gauci said, while stressing the
importance of active neutrality.
She was responding to the Prime
Minister's recent statements on
the need to increase defence ex-
penditure in view of growing
threats.
"In today's world, a country's
defence takes various forms. Our
energy supply, heavily reliant on
Sicily, is vulnerable to sabotage.
Cyberattacks could cripple essen-
tial services. These risks highlight
the importance of preparedness,
which should not be dismissed
as unnecessary spending," Gauci
said.
While rejecting military allianc-
es or bases, Gauci insisted that
Malta must take a strong moral
stance against human rights viola-
tions and international atrocities,
including the ongoing conflict in
Gaza.
She added that as a small neutral
island state, Malta should actively
use its status to mediate conflicts
and advocate for peace.
ADPD calls for more defence spending
in full respect of neutrality
NICOLE
MEILAK
nmeilak@mediatoday.com.mt
