Malta has recognised the Syrian opposition National Coalition as the sole legal representative of the people of Syria.
Formed last year, the coalition brings together opposition groups in the Syrian civil war.
Foreign Minister George Vella made the statement during an informal Foreign Ministers' meeting in Dublin. A number of EU countries have already recognised the coalition as the Syrians' sole legal representative.
Malta, together with the majority of countries present for the Gymnich meeting, opposed a France and UK proposal for the lifting of an arms embargo and said it agreed to any non-military civilian protection.