The article by former Enemalta manager John Pace on a proposed gas pipeline (January 18) makes interesting reading. He refers to the pipeline laid between Italy and Libya in 2003-2004.

Of course, one must consider the position taken by Italy and Libya at the time. The most important question to be raised was whether either country would have agreed to have the pipeline pass through Malta.

At the time, Malta’s relations with Libya were not what they are today. To my mind it was quite possible that the Libyans might have felt that they would be at the Maltese Government’s mercy by being able to cut off supplies to Libya, then under the Gaddafi regime, and refused to have the pipeline via Malta.

Perhaps also Italy’s agreement specified that the pipeline was to be direct to Libya.

The Maltese Government officials who had been involved in the discussions at the time might want to clarify these points.