Joseph Cuschieri did not break any diplomatic protocols a government official told The Malta Independent.
It was earlier reported in the Times of Malta that he had been recalled as Ambassador to Italy after he reportedly travelled to Rome before his appointment was formalised. The Times of Malta, quoting sources, said the former MEP had breached diplomatic protocol by doing so.
A government spokesperson has now said that "Cuschieri always acted in accordance to official instructions issued by the Ministry and did not, as incorrectly implied, break diplomatic protocols." No information was given as to why he was recalled.
Cuschieri has previously served as Ambassador to Greece. He was due to replace Vanessa Frazier at the Rome posting, but the role will now be taken up by former AFM commander Carm Vassallo.
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson had confirmed with the Times that Cuschieri's posting had been terminated but did not give the reason why.
Cuschieri had, in 2008, given up his Parliamentary seat for Joseph Muscat after the latter was elected Labour Leader. He was an MEP between 2011 and 2013.