Home Affairs Minister Carm Mifsud Bonnici has written to his Swiss counterpart, criticising Switzerland's decision on visas to Libyan nationals.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici noted that Switzerland, as a member of Schengen, had asked to be consulted on visa applications made by Libyan citizens to the other Schengen states, while it had banned a number of politically high profile Libyan citizens from going into the Schengen area.

"In our view, such a step runs counter to the spirit of the Schengen acquis. Refusing entry in an instrument to protect our citizens, to protect our national security, and for no other purpose."

He pointed out that the difficulties experienced by Maltese citizens following measures taken by Libya to suspend the granting of visas to Schengen area citizens.

"May I bring this matter to your attention to ensure that we all act together, aware of the importance of implementing properly our Schengen obligations in the interest of freedom and security of our citizens."

Dr Mifsud Bonnici also wrote a similar letter to the Spanish home affairs minister (since Spain holds the EU presidency) and requested an urgent debate within the EU Council of Home Affairs Ministers.

He said the granting of visas under Schengen rules should not be in any way abused as an instrument of political retortion.

Meanwhile, the Italian media reported this afternoon that the foreign ministers of Libya, Italy and Malta may discuss the issue in Rome tomorrow (see separate story).