Malta yesterday became the first candidate country to say yes to joining the EU in a historic enlargement on May 1, 2004, after more than 53 per cent of the electorate voted in favour.

Sources said Prime Minister Eddie Fenech Adami is today expected to announce the election after a cabinet meeting. It is widely expected to be held on April 12.

The referendum result was met with jubilation by EU flag waving carcaders that made their way to Auberge de Castille, in Valletta to welcome the prime minister as he entered to give a press conference in the afternoon.

Dr Fenech Adami thanked the 270,650 voters that took part in Saturday's referendum and described the result as "significant". He hoped the other candidate countries would follow suit.

The turnout, at 91 per cent, was much higher than many people had expected, while the number of invalid votes, at 1.5 per cent, was negligible.

Even though fewer people voted against EU membership, 46.4 per cent, Labour leader Alfred Sant claimed victory for his party's "partnership" option during a press conference at the MLP headquarters.

It was preceded by an impromptu "mass meeting" held outside the Super One studios in Marsa which attracted a large number of MLP supporters.

The day was marred by scuffles as cars filled with supporters from opposing sides crossed each other's path and hurled abuse. However, the heavy police presence prevented the potentially perilous situation getting out of control.

European Commission President Romano Prodi expressed his great satisfaction at the result.

"To the Maltese, I say: 'We welcome you wholeheartedly," Mr Prodi said.

"I welcome with special satisfaction the decision of the Maltese confirming their entry into the European Union. This vote is a positive signal for the ratification process of this enlargement."