The need for an integrated European approach to counter terrorism was highlighted today by Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela during the Informal Justice and Home Affairs council in Riga.

The minister referred to the recent terrorist attack on the Corinthia Hotel in Tripoli and said that instability in the Mediterranean led to a threat to European security.

The ministers also discussed migration flows particularly in view of the challenges posed by the emerging trend of smugglers using larger vessels to transport migrants.

Mr Abela emphasised Malta's role on the issue of irregular migration starting from search and rescue and stressed the need for EU states to work together including in the return of irregular migrants.

He also underlined the need for relocation of beneficiaries of protection.

A joint statement underlining the ministers’ united determination to combat terrorism was adopted at the end of the session. The ministers agreed to intensify the implementation of already agreed measures, while also identifying additional measures that would contribute to the fight against terrorism.