Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi this afternoon presided over the signing of a communique on education and training between the governments of Malta and Libya.

Dr Gonzi said he felt privileged to welcome the new administration of Libya and was glad education was a priority for the new administration.

“This is an area where Malta can offer its expertise for Libya to achieve its targets,” he said.

Libyan minister for labour Mohammed al Fitouri Swalem thanked the government for all its help and said the communique would enhance the excellent relations between the two countries.

Dr Gonzi said the agreement was another step in the relationship between the two peoples and endorsed the deep friendship that existed in practical terms.

It was setting the ball rolling for the Ta’ Giorni school to be transformed into a Libyan training centre of excellence. This would be financed by Libya with the technical expertise being offered by Malta.

It would become a regional institute of education confirming Malta as a regional hub of excellence.

The communique also covers for the education of 900 Libyans who will come to study at Malta College for Arts, Sciences and Technology. As previously announced, an Mcast would also be set up in Misurata.

Mr al Fitouri Swalem said the Ta Giorni school was not exploited as it should have been but more focus would now be given to it.

Malta had a lot of experience and expertise in various sectors and it was one of the countries that stood up against the Gaddafi regime.

“We will never forget what they did in those days,” he said.