Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and his Dutch counterpart Jan Peter Balkenende, who is in Malta on a working visit, discussed yesterday what they described as “common issues”, including economic relations between the two countries and other issues related to the European Union.

Following the talks, Dr Gonzi said the discussions with Mr Balkenende were “very interesting”, and added that the two parties discussed, among other things, the excellent relations between Malta and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Economic relations between the two countries, as well as business ties between Malta and the Netherlands, have improved dramatically since Malta joined the European Union in May last year, he said, and are continuing to improve.

Dr Gonzi said he and Mr Balkenende discussed the European Union’s financial perspectives which, he said, interest both countries. They also discussed the further enlargement of the Union as well as stability in the Mediterranean region, and how Malta can contribute to this.

Mr Balkenende said that this was the second time he had been in Malta for an official visit, adding that he loved returning to Malta both for work and even to relax with his family. He said that during his talks with Dr Gonzi, they had also discussed migration issues and other matters of common interest.

He expressed the hope that he would return to Malta for another official visit. He confirmed that relations between Malta and the Netherlands were “excellent” and that these can be improved.

Outside Castille, Mr Balkenende was welcomed by a group of Dutch people who were surprised to see their Prime Minister in Malta. He took the time to turn and wave to them.

Earlier, Mr Balkenende had opened the new Dutch Embassy at Whitehall Mansions in Ta’ Xbiex.