Talks which a government delegation led by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi had in Libya, including with Muammar Gaddafi, were yesterday described as "positive".

"Discussions with Col. Gaddafi dealt with the added value of Malta's Mediterranean dimension as a member of the European Union and the way in which it could contribute to peace and stability in the region," Dr Gonzi said.

The most important issue discussed by Dr Gonzi and his Libyan counterpart, Shoukri Ghanem, was illegal immigration.

"We both appreciated each other's will to overcome difficulties on the issue. We hope there will be more cooperation between Malta and Libya on the matter," Dr Gonzi said on his return.

Foreign Minister Michael Frendo and Libyan Secretary for Foreign Affairs Abdel Rahman Shalgam met at the Libyan Foreign Office in Tripoli for talks late on Tuesday evening.

Both ministers reiterated their desire to strengthen relations between the two countries.

Dr Frendo said Malta welcomed Libya's eventual participation in the Euro-Med process.

Other issues discussed included the issuing of visas for business purposes. Maltese businessmen complain of delays in the process.

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