EU-Arab League ministers discuss range of issues in Malta

European Union and Arab League ministers this afternoon reaffirmed their support for the current Israeli-Palestinian negotiations and called for an immediate reopening of the crossing between Gaza and Israel.

"Both the League of Arab States and the EU stand ready to support the parties during negotiations and the subsequent implementation period" the ministers said in a communique at the end of their first ever meeting, held in Malta..

Maltese Foreign Minister Michael Frendo and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al Faisal said much of the proceedings were dominated by discussion on issues such as climate change and immigration, with the prince proposing follow-up meetings by an ad hoc task force.

The suggestion was taken on board by EU external relations commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner who said she will commit a dedicated team. Together with counterparts from the Arab League’s secretariat, the task force will hammer out in more detail specific cooperation measures between the two blocs.

Ministers from different countries praised Dr Frendo Frendo, for his initiative to have the meeting in Malta, with the Prince Al Faisal humorously thanking him for his “stubbornness”.

“We came here with very low expectations but are leaving with a very optimistic outlook about future cooperation,” the Saudi Foreign Minister said.