The visit by Minister Najla M. El-Mangoush is one that symbolises the strong relationship that Malta and Libya have and will see that it is further strengthened in all areas, Foreign Minister Ian Borg said following an official meeting he had with Libya’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Minister Borg said that Malta embodies important values in Maltese foreign policy, such as those of cooperation, friendship, and active participation. These values were also noted in the strong vote that Malta managed to achieve a few days ago so that from next year it will form part of the United Nations Security Council.

During the bilateral meeting, several topics of interest for both countries, primarily the Mediterranean region, were discussed in order to ensure stability and security. Other important topics were discussed such as irregular immigration and human trafficking.

The Maltese minister for foreign affairs stated that during the official meeting, the current situation in Libya was also discussed, and how Malta can contribute to this process of stability. “Once again I reiterated Malta’s position and urged all parties to refrain from taking any action that would undermine peace and security in the country. I believe that a political solution is needed as soon as possible through fair and inclusive elections”, said Ian Borg.

Minister Borg said that Malta will continue to move forward and give its support to Libya also on a European and international basis.

From her end, Libya’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Najla M. El-Mangoush said that this meeting is important because the good relations and the friendship that Libya has with Malta could be further strengthened. She also stressed the significance of today’s date – June 11 – as it was this day in 1965 that marked the beginning of diplomatic relations between the two countries.