British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has sent a message to Lawrence Gonzi congratulating him on his victory in Saturday's general election.

"My congratulations on your election victory - a personal triumph in your first general election as Prime Minister and party leader," Mr Brown said.

"I look forward to continuing to work with you and your government within Europe and on the important global challenges both our countries are facing. In particular, those of climate change, illegal migration and the creation of a Europe able to make a really effective contribution on these and other key issues of concern," he said.

Mr Brown and Dr Gonzi will meet at the European Union summit in Brussels tomorrow and Friday.

Meanwhile, the chairman of the EPP-ED Group, the largest political group in the European Parliament, has warmly congratulated the Prime Minister on his electoral victory.

Joseph Daul MEP said: "Last Saturday, the Maltese public voted for more prosperity and further integration in the European family. Lawrence Gonzi's period in office during the past four years has delivered undisputable results for Malta and we whole-heartedly welcome his re-election to office.

"On the domestic front, Dr Gonzi skilfully managed to turn the fortunes of Malta's public finances and at the same time managed to make EU membership a success story for his country, so much so that Malta is a leading actor in EU policy development."