The Maltese government took note of what the European Presidency, European Commission and European Parliament said on citizenship but will continue its citizenship programme as planned.

It is clear that citizenship is of national competence and that there are other countries which have citizenship programmes, and visa and residential schemes.

The Maltese government’s plans respects the parameters specified in the European Treaty, as stated by the European Council, and will be the most transparent of the lot.

The Maltese government said it is disappointed by the level of misinformation that was given on the Maltese programme.

It said it was optimistic that the programme, which confirms with all regulations, will create a €1 billion fund that will be of benefit to Maltese and Gozitans.