The Prime Minister sidestepped controversy when he addressed potential investors in Miami on the citizenship scheme yesterday.

His speech came as the government and the Opposition are locked in talks to find consensus over the cash-for-citizenship programme.

Joseph Muscat did not comment on the ongoing talks, according to a statement by the Office of the Prime Minister . “It is not prudent to speak about the ongoing discussions,” he was quoted telling his audience.

Dr Muscat was quoted saying that a renewed effort to have political consensus was under way.

The government and the Opposition are tight-lipped on the talks that started on Thursday. Another round of discussions is expected to be held today.

The law was approved in Parliament last week after the government rejected Opposition amendments. Two days later, the government announced it was dropping the clause that would have kept the names of beneficiaries hidden from public scrutiny.

The Opposition wants to replace the one-off cash payment concept by a programme linked to long-term investment and residency.

“Malta wants to attract talent from all over the world to be at the forefront of the global economy,” Dr Muscat said in Miami, adding the citizenship scheme was targeted towards high-end individuals.

ksansone@timesofmalta.com