UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon expressed his appreciation at Malta’s genuine efforts for Libya to once again become a safe and stable country.

Speaking during a meeting with Prime Minister Joseph Muscat in New York, Mr Ban said he could understand the impact the humanitarian problem resulting from the conflict was having on Malta.

Dr Muscat said Malta was committed to continue doing its part for the political crisis to be addressed. The crucial point was the unconditional disarmament for the militia to stop holding towns hostage and a genuine will for national reconciliation to reign for all the Libyan people to progress in peace.

The UN, Dr Muscat said, should be ready to oblige to any call for action from Libyans in favour of compromise and consultation.

The Prime Minister said that the immigration problem and the conflict in Libya could not be treated separately. The criminal circle behind human trafficking could easily profit from the unstable situation and continue to throw immigrants in a sea of danger for its own gain. The latest tragedy, described by the UNHCR as mass murder, was only last week.

Dr Muscat insisted that Malta was to remain tough with politicians and the international community while showing dignity and respect towards the immigrant victims. The government, he said, had changed its policy for minors not to be placed in detention centres.