PM thanks the US for refugee resettlement

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi has thanked the US for starting a resettlement programme for refugees based in Malta, which is helping to alleviate the "ever growing" burden of immigration.

Dr Gonzi said this US assistance, on a particularly sensitive issue for Malta, highlighted the deep friendship and co-operation that existed between both countries.

As a result of this agreement, individuals were being given the opportunity to start a new chapter in their lives.

The refugee resettlement agreement was drawn up in collaboration with UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Organisation for Migration.

Dr Gonzi was speaking during a reception at the US Embassy residence to celebrate the 232nd anniversary of Independence Day.

Over the past months, relations between the two countries have been further consolidated with a double taxation agreement, the signing of a memorandum of understanding regarding visa waiver for Maltese nationals visiting the US, an extradition agreement, and a ship-boarding agreement.