Farmers in Malta staged a demonstration on Friday to protest against EU agricultural policies, joining farmers in several other European Union states. Prime Minister Robert Abela surprised them by showing up in person to hear their complaints. The farmers drove tractors and trucks, waving banners and placards accusing the EU of endangering their livelihoods. They protested against the lowering of trade barriers, rules restricting pesticide use, limitations on state aid, and high costs. Similar protests have been taking place in other European capitals and Brussels, with French farmers starting to lift their blockades after concessions by the government in Paris. For more information, click on the link above.