A meeting was held between the British Minister of State at the Department for Exiting the EU David Jones and the Minister for Competitiveness and Digital, Maritime and Services Economy Emanuel Mallia

The meeting was held at the Minister of State at the Department for Exiting the EU's office at Downing Street on Thursday 9th February and Minister Mallia was accompanied by his Permanent Secretary.

Minister Jones explained that the UK intends to preserve the current agreements concerning the free movement of people with all EU Member States. He argued that thousands of UK citizens live in other countries and many other EU citizens live within the UK. It may be very detrimental if these arrangements are changed or withdrawn as the negatives may disturb people's lives on both sides of the scenario.

Both ministers agreed that following Brexit, Malta and the UK should keep improving their collaboration in the security portfolio and the sharing of intelligence for the mutual benefit of both countries.

The British minister touched on the subject of free trade and said that it is his government's intention to retain the current free trade agreements with the EU.

Whilst being aware that there might be certain reservations among other EU Member States, he explained that the UK's aim is to retain the acquis in order to facilitate the process.

Minister Mallia thanked Minister Jones for his positive approach and reaffirmed Malta's position in this regard. The digital single market was also highlighted as an area for mutual cooperation.

Minister Mallia said that it is Malta's intention to ensure that a fair agreement is reached in the Brexit negotiations.

The need to keep improving and strengthening the excellent relations between Malta and the UK is as evident as it was before.

Both ministers agreed to keep on discussing these issues in the coming weeks.