Prime Minister Robert Abela said Thursday that there is agreement that discussions are held on the possibility to change European Conventions related to migration to reflect today's realities.

Abela is in Brussels to take part in a European Union summit.

Before the summit began, Prime  Ministers from 12 member states took part in a meeting that discussed migration issues, with Abela emphasising that reforms are necessary for EU countries to be able to deal with challenges brought about by migration.

This is crucial, he said, to protect whoever needs assistance but ensures that those who do not quality for asylum are returned to their country of origin.

In comments he gave to the media, Abela said that there is an emphasis on the need to address shortcomings in European legislation. This push should be complemented with discussions on the possibility to amend European Conventions.

During the meeting Abela proposed that this crucial discussion takes place during Malta's presidency of the Council of Europe which starts in May. Abela said this proposal was "welcomed with great interest", according to a Department of Information statement.

He said that attendance for meetings on migration is growing as a result of how this challenge is being felt by more countries.

The EU should take the opportunity to simplify the repatriation processes and cut down on abuse, Abela said.