Malta’s EU envoy Richard Cachia Caruana will be attending next week’s summit in Brussels despite resigning on Monday, according to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi.

Speaking yesterday during a visit to the offices of software company 6PM in Naxxar, Dr Gonzi said that next week’s EU summit was important and came at a delicate time.

“Richard Cachia Caruana resigned but offered his services like he has always done in the national interest, even at this delicate moment.

“This is what a loyal individual and a person of integrity does and this should serve as an example for others.”

In a letter to Mr Cachia Caruana published later, Dr Gonzi asked him to stay in the job for “some weeks” until a proper handover can be made.

“I also hope our country could continue to benefit from your services,” Dr Gonzi wrote.

Dr Gonzi told The Times a replacement would be found shortly. He also blamed “personal agendas” for the ousting of former Home Affairs Minister Carm Mifsud Bonnici and Mr Cachia Caruana.

“The government will take note of the result but it still enjoys Parliament’s trust and we will continue governing in the country’s best interest,” he said.