The Foreign Affairs Ministry is working on diminishing contentions over offshore oil exploration sites that can be exploited by Malta, said Minister Michael Frendo while meeting Maltese consuls representing foreign countries in Malta.

Minister Frendo said 70 per cent of the area which Malta is claiming for itself is claimed by other countries. Hence, the ministry is working to reduce such disputes and increase Malta’s exploration area.

Energy is high on the agenda of a number of countries, including the EU, said Dr Frendo, adding that energy generation is a very important issue for Malta. The country should secure alternative sources of energy and assure an adequate provision of energy.

The minister claimed Malta has worked hard within the EU to address the problem of irregular migration. Dr Frendo stated that Malta’s efforts have shown that even a small country can give an important contribution during discussions. He also referred to the reactivation of repatriation agreements which have been suspended since Malta’s accession into the EU.

Dr Frendo praised the ministry’s officials for their service to the country and stated that the more countries Malta keeps contact with, the better.

Chev. Maurice Mizzi, on behalf of the Dean of the Consuls Cops, praised the work of Minister Frendo and his staff, especially with regard to the migration problem. He said consuls have agreed to attract at least one commercial delegation from the country they represent and organise a meeting with local entrepreneurs.