The Italian media has pounced on a statement by Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela on Tuesday that there was “an informal agreement” between the two countries which has seen Italy taking migrants rescued in the Mediterranean.
Despite a quick correction by Mr Abela a few hours after his original declaration, emphasising there was no informal agreement but only “close collaboration”, the media in Italy yesterday reported that the ‘secret’ deal could be related to oil exploration rights to the south of Sicily.
According to a leading article in Il Giornale, which supports the Italian Opposition, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has agreed with Joseph Muscat to exchange irregular migrants for oil exploration rights in areas disputed by both Italy and Malta south of Sicily.
Questions about the Italian media reports sent to the Home Affairs Ministry remained unanswered.
Up to a few years ago, the two countries used to have frequent disputes over where migrants rescued in Malta’s vast maritime search and rescue area should be landed but the problem came to a complete halt following meetings between the two prime ministers.
Asked about the matter last April, Dr Muscat insisted there was no such agreement. He said: “Rome understood our limitations and we have understood theirs. We are now cooperating in a more meaningful manner.”
In a statement this afternoon, the government again insisted there was no agreement, formal or informal, with the Italian government about migration.
"Italy and Malta have been collaborating closely for the past few years to make sure that people are saved at sea.
"Disembarkation of migrants rescued at sea is always conducted as per applicable international obligations to Malta, and as per respective operational plans in case of participation in Frontex or any other operation. Malta has been devoting 100 per cent of its resources to save immigrants at sea.
"There are absolutely no discussions or agreements linking migration with oil exploration.
"Reports stating the contrary are factually wrong," the government said.