The International Organisation for Migration has emphasised its commitment to Malta as it faced the irregular migration problem.

During an informal meeting of the Justice and Home Affairs Council, Home Affairs Minister Manuel Mallia, met the IOM's director general William Lacy Swing.

Ambassador Swing acknowledged Malta's difficult situation in Malta and emphasised IOM’s commitment to continue assisting the country.

Malta has had close cooperation with IOM, notably in the implementation of a programme for assisted voluntary return and reintegration of migrants who have no authorisation to remain in Malta.

Dr Mallia and Ambassador Swing agreed on the importance of enhancing the  collaboration, particularly to increase the take up of the voluntary return option.

It was also agreed that IOM would continue to assist with the resettlement and relocation of beneficiaries of international protection from Malta, as well with training on the identification of victims of trafficking.

The Government and IOM will be exploring the possibility of further cooperation through additional measures, with Ambassador Swing expressing IOM’s willingness to assist Malta in various ways.