Malta has established diplomatic relations with Eritrea in a move that may help with repatriation efforts.

The deal was reached at the Permanent Mission of Malta to the United Nations in New York, the government said.

Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador and Permanent Representative Saviour Borg discussed the increase in migrant arrivals with his foreign counterpart Araya Desta.

Mr Borg mentioned the problems being faced by Malta in coping with this influx and the effort it is making to secure the involvement and support of neighbouring countries.

About 153 migrants arrived from Eritrea between January and October this year.

From a global perspective, he stressed the need for all members of the United Nations to join hands in combating human trafficking.