Mutual assistance

The Libyan Ambassador presumes he can lecture the European Foreign Affairs Committee of the Housed of Representatives on the problem of illegal immigration. He points out that this is an "international problem which demands international solutions" (The Times, December 6).

No disagreement here. True, Libya's borders to the south are extensive and difficult to control, but then did the European Union not offer the financial and technical support alluded to by the ambassador?

Also, one questions what internal measures Libya has in place to control the transition of illegal immigrants as they make their way north. Are people suspected of being in the country illegally being asked to produce valid travel documents and deported if such are not produced?

Professing to understand the extent of Malta's plight in this situation, the ambassador also stated that his country was "cooperating and doing its utmost for the problem to be eased". How? No repatriation agreement has been offered to the Maltese government, such as the one that exists with Italy. The reticence with which the proposed Frontex deployment was received by the Libyan government brings into question Libya's cooperation and commitment to alleviate Malta's problem. Libya should also have offered to use its influence with its sister African Union states to accept repatriation of their illegal immigrant countrymen and women.

Malta has done its part and played a role in explaining Libya's views about issues of common interest on more than one occasion. As an example, Malta was instrumental in persuading the EU to lift sanctions against Libya shortly after the island joined the Union. Despite the efforts of the Maltese government, tangible evidence of reciprocal action has not been evident on the part of Libya.

Perhaps, the bridge between Europe and Africa will consist of waves of illegal immigrants who depart Libya's shores and end up in Malta.