The public consultation in Palermo and Gela, Sicily, regarding the Malta - Sicily gas pipeline will begin in March, Energy Minister Joe Mizzi said in a statement.

The project will link Malta to the Eurpean network, and this would mean integration with the European internal gas market, the statement read, "with access to more advantageous prices."

The project is of common interest for Europe, the statement read, and makes it possible to utilise European funds.

Recently, Gela Mayor Domenico Messinese and other council members held a meeting with the Maltese Minister. Mizzi said that the relationship developed between the the two localities brought benefits to both sides.

The statement read that last January, the European Commission approved €3.7 million in funds for all studies for the upcoming 2.5 years. The studies, include an Environmental Impact Assessment in both Sicily and Malta, detailed maritime surveys etc.