Libya will never forget the help it received from Malta, both physically and morally, the former chairman of the Libyan Transitional Council, Mustafa Abdul Jalil, said yesterday.

He was confident Libya had a bright future ahead following the turmoil it went through two years ago, which reached its climax with the death of dictator Muammar Gaddafi.

Thanking Malta for its help when difficulties arose, Mr Jalil said he looked forward to seeing Libya strengthening its ties with the island.

He was speaking during a courtesy visit to Prime Minister Joseph Muscat in Valletta.

Mr Jalil said although he had not been involved in the political scene for almost two years, he was closely following the developments in his country.

“I am optimistic of a prosperous future for Libya and its people and even more optimistic that cooperation between Malta and Libya will continue to grow,” he said.

Dr Muscat assured him of Malta’s commitment in aiding Libya become a democracy.

“We are following the events in Libya with trepidation and sometimes with joy.

“We enjoy very close ties and have signed a number of agreements, with more to come. We look forward to increasing cooperation,” he said.

Mr Jalil later called on Opposition Leader Simon Busuttil.

He was invited to attend last night’s launch of Gonzi and Malta’s break with Gaddafi by Kite Group.