The Maltese government has expressed its concern at the recent developments around the crisis in Libya and reaffirmed its conviction that a political and diplomatic solution based on the UN track is the sole way ahead.
In a statement, the Maltese government said that "a solution for peace, security, stability and ultimately prosperity in Libya requires a durable and comprehensive ceasefire, and an effective implementation of the arms embargo on Libya. Malta calls on all foreign actors to de-escalate their interventions in and around Libya. Malta supports the European Union in its assertion that, at all times, the international community speaks with one voice in support of the welfare of the Libyan people, safeguarding the delicate balance of security and stability in the region."
Earlier in the day, a group of Libyans who live in Malta gathered in front of the Turkish Embassy in Floriana Friday morning in order to protest against Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's decision to send Turkish troops to Libya.
Turkey's parliament on Thursday authorized the deployment of troops to Libya to support the U.N.-backed government in Tripoli that is battling forces loyal to a rival government seeking to capture the capital.
Turkish lawmakers voted 325-184 at an emergency session in favour of a one-year mandate allowing the government to dispatch troops amid concerns that Turkish forces could aggravate the conflict in Libya and destabilize the region.
Mauftah Ali, spokesperson and organiser of the protest in Malta, stated that with this protest they want to send a message to the "Ottoman occupation in Libya."
Ali appealed to the European society to support them as this move by Turkey will not only effect Libya but also Europe due to their closeness geographically, "as Erdogan is dreaming big this time."
This is the first of the many demonstrations and protests they have planned for this week, the protesters said.