Robert Abela has refused to say whether Malta will continue to allow Russian nationals to buy Maltese citizenship, as the west imposes sanctions on Russia in the midst of the Ukraine crisis.
Replying to questions Abela would only say on Wednesday that the Individual Investor Programme is 'robust' and operates strong due diligence policies.
The prime minister speaking on Wednesday. Video Chris Sant Fournier.
The US, EU, Britain, Australia and Japan have imposed sanctions on Russia targeting banks that finance Russian operations, and some of Russia's richest persons, seen to be close to Russian President Putin.
Maltese citizenship could be a way how rich Russians sidestep possible EU sanctions since they would legally also be considered as Maltese citizens.
On Tuesday, the Maltese foreign ministry issued a statement condemning Russia's decision to recognise Ukraine's breakaway republics. It reiterated its "strong support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders, as well as its sovereign right to choose its own foreign and security policy path".
Also on Tuesday, Abela told journalists that Malta shares the EU's view on the...
