2016 would be another challenging year for Malta not less because of the European Presidency the country would be sharing with another two countries, Labour Party deputy leader Toni Abela said today when addressing members of the diplomatic corps.

Dr Abela noted that Malta had just successfully organised the Valletta Summit, which brought together European and African leaders and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, during which 53 heads of state were represented.

Speaking on what was taking place in Libya, Dr Abela said that what was happening there was of interest to Malta and that was why Malta, whenever it had the opportunity in international fora, always stressed the need to find a solution to the conflicts.

Malta remained in favour of the United Nation’s plan for Libya and would continue to support diplomatic missions in the country, Dr Abela said.

He also spoke on migration and said that although the number of arrivals had gone down drastically, this did not mean that the issue was solved.

The Labour deputy leader also stressed the need for solidarity with the needy and to be strong in the fight against terrorism.

One had to ensure that terrorists did not take advantage of the freedom that existed. Moreover, terrorism had to be fought not just through more security but also through culture, education and the social sector.

Dr Abela also spoke on the need for a special representative in the Mediterranean, a matter Malta has been speaking about at the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe.