(Adds PN's and PL's wishes , Louis Galea statement)

The European Parliament has approved Louis Galea's nomination to sit on the Court of Auditors with 553 votes in favour, 17 against and two abstentions.

Dr Galea's nomination had already been approved by the EP's Budget Committee, which had grilled Dr Galea in a 30-minute session.

The Nationalist and Labour parties congratulated Dr Galea on his appointment.

LOUIS GALEA WELCOMES RESULT

In a statement, Dr Galea welcomed the vote and said the next step was now the formal appointment of the European Court of Auditors by the COuncil of Ministers in April.

He thanked MEPs Simon Busuttil and Louis Grech, the heads of Malta's PN and PL delegations, who together with the toher MEPs gave their constant and open support to his nomination, especially within their groups.

He said he also appreciated the support expressed by AD chairman Michael Briguglio.

Dr Galea thanked his predecessor Josef Bonnici, who immediately ofered his assistance and support for Dr Galea to get all the necessary information about the court, something which helped him immensely during the hearing by the EP's Budget Committee.

Dr Galea thanked ambassador Richard Cachia Carunaa, the National Audit Office, Opposition leader Joseph Muscat, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, cabinet and the PN Parliamentary group. He said he appreciated the congratulatory messages he received from many people and friends.

Dr Galea promised to carry out his duties in a professional way and would continue to follow what would be taking place in Malta to remain close to the people's needs and aspirations.

In the coming days, Dr Galea would be speaking to the Prime Minister and the leader of the Opposition for the necessary steps to be taken for the appointment of a new speaker in the House of Representative for a smooth transition.