Interest in foreign affairs is not generally high, even among politicians, unless political trouble abroad affects people’s daily lives.

Conflicts that make international headlines and that never seem to go away often take second place in domestic radio and television news programmes and, also, in newspapers.

For more than one reason, what is happening in Libya today is of immediate interest to Malta. Never mind the photo opportunity the Prime Minister took on the return of Martin Galea on his release from abduction, the trouble in Libya could have long-lasting repercussions both on that country’s prospects as well as on its trade links with the outside world.

The setback in efforts at building a new Libya following the overthrow of the Gaddafi regime may cast a dark spell on the country’s morale. However, after so many years under a dictatorial administration directed by one man and his family, those involved in the fighting ought to rise above their regional interests and work towards taking their country into a new era.

Except for just one occasion, Malta has always had good relations with Libya. The dispute, in the early 1970s, over offshore oil exploration rights in an area contested by both countries has long been made up by greater friendly relations and collaboration between the two countries. Malta’s support to the people at the time of Gaddafi’s overthrow was tangible evidence of where the island stood when it came to choose between backing a dictatorial regime and standing up for people’s rights.

One big, persistent problem that Libya presents to Malta is, of course, the irregular migration flow from the country towards southern Europe. Today’s conflict is likely to make the problem worse.

But there is yet another side to the story – the impact the conflict is having on the country’s trade links with other countries, including Malta.

Other than Corinthia, which has a luxury hotel and a string of residences in Tripoli, there are a number of Maltese firms that have invested in that country. A rough estimate by the GRTU puts the amount of investment in property and stocks, excluding that owned by the Corinthia, at between €60 million and €70 million. This is not a fantastic figure, but for Malta it is not insignificant either.

Exports to Libya have been building up steadily too, rising to €138 million last year, compared with €85.2 million in 2010. Those having business interests in Libya are among the hardest hit, for it is not easy for them to just pack their bags and leave.

GRTU president Paul Abela explained the problem when he said that, for those who own shops, warehouses and stocks worth millions, the moment they leave is the moment they lose everything. Which is why it is calling for an emergency meeting of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development to discuss the situation.

Businessmen are expecting the government, which is also represented on the council, to give them a briefing about the situation on the ground so that they can make up their mind about whether it is worth staying the course or pull out.

The GRTU’s call ought to be taken up immediately as there is no more time to lose. In fact, it would be wise for the government to keep the council regularly informed.

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