Malta And Libya Discuss Irregular Migration And Security Cooperation

Home Affairs and Security Minister Glenn Bedingfield met Libyan Interior Minister Emad Al-Trabelsi during a visit to Libya to discuss irregular migration, security and cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting took place on the first day of Bedingfield’s visit, with the Minister highlighting Libya’s strategic importance to Malta and Europe as a key country along the Mediterranean irregular migration route.

Bedingfield stressed the importance of continued cooperation to address irregular migration and strengthen efforts to combat human trafficking networks. He also thanked Al-Trabelsi for the cooperation extended to Malta, calling for further collaboration through ongoing dialogue and practical action.

Cooperation between the two countries also covers law enforcement, maritime surveillance and sea rescue operations, with both sides seeking to strengthen the capabilities of their respective authorities.

As part of the visit, Bedingfield is also scheduled to meet the Libyan Prime Minister to discuss bilateral relations, with a particular focus on security and irregular migration.

A training programme for Libyan authorities is also being planned, covering areas such as law enforcement, small boat handling, boat and engine maintenance, maritime operations and sea rescue coordination.

The proposed programme has an indicative budget of €500,000.

The Ministry for Home Affairs and Security said it would continue working to strengthen relations with other countries and promote cooperation aimed at achieving concrete results in security and efforts to combat irregular migration.

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