Foreign Minister Michael Frendo returned from Libya on Wednesday evening after a meeting with the Libyan leader, Muammar Ghaddafi in Tripoli.

They discussed the close relationship between Malta and Libya and the ongoing cooperation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the two countries, reiterating the two countries’ commitment to continue to deepen and strengthen it - including with regard to trade and investment - building on historic relations and the sharing of a common space and common challenges. They also discussed Mediterranean, African and European issues, the issue of illegal immigration, and of the continental shelf between the two neighbouring states.

Dr Frendo said Malta steadfastly kept a special focus on the Mediterranean and placed a special consideration on its relationship with Libya.

Colonel Ghaddafi recalled the historic and close friendship between Libya and Malta and their peoples, and its sound basis in view of common cultural roots and geographical proximity. He appreciated the point made that Malta’s friendship with Libya was expressed in Malta’s foreign policy internationally and within the context of the European Union.

Dr Frendo delivered a letter from the President of Malta in which he states that Malta follows closely the efforts of Libya towards a closer union in Africa. Referring to the phenomenon of mass migration seeking a better life northwards towards Libya, Malta and beyond as one of “the challenges of Africa”, the President in his letter emphasises Malta’s concern in view of its size and it being the most densely populated country in the region. He asked for the Libyan Leader’s “special understanding of our situation”.