Speaking to The Malta Independent, Dr Gonzi said, “I can express satisfaction and pleasure at the fact that Dr Borg was given this portfolio. Fisheries and maritime policy is an area that represents Malta and the Mediterranean dimension. It is an area where we have expertise.”

Dr Gonzi said that fisheries was an area that was, in particular, important to the smaller European Union states.

He continued, “I am also satisfied because this was one of the areas I had discussed with Mr Barroso and said I felt we could contribute. As I said, the fact that Joe Borg got the nod shows that Mr Barroso has the confidence that he can do a good job. We know our fishing, it has been in our history for a long time, we have a certain expertise and we can contribute.”

He added that the appointment was a clear message that Mr Barroso regards the areas of fisheries and maritime policy as important ones because they were previously affiliated with other commissions. “Mr Barroso has also trusted Dr Borg to

coordinate a task force that will draft a green paper on maritime policy,” said Dr Gonzi.

The Prime Minister also said that Mr Barroso added legal clout by adding the law of the sea to the maritime policy section. “Mr Barroso made it clear that he wants a team of commissioners. He wanted a strong team that will use teamwork to get the desired results,” said Dr Gonzi.

Answering questions by TMID, Dr Gonzi said he felt Malta will certainly be working closely with Commissioner Rocco Buttiglione, who is in charge of border control.

“I think Mr Barroso knew exactly what he wanted and has put together a team that can work together,” he said.