Malta International Airport was not just another private commercial entity but a strategic company of national importance, Labour leader Joseph Muscat said after touring the airport facilities yesterday.

Shown around by MIA chief executive Julian Jaeger, Dr Muscat said the Labour Party would be stressing with management that decisions were not only taken in the company's interest but also in the best national interest. "Seeking the long-term national interest would eventually also benefit MIA and the investors who expressed their trust in Malta," Dr Muscat said.

Journalists were only allowed to follow the walkabout around the airport and ask questions before Dr Muscat and Mr Jaeger held private talks.

The Opposition Leader confirmed that the issue of airport charges was also on the agenda. Labour tourism spokesman Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, who a month ago called for an independent audit of fees charged by MIA, was also present for the meeting as were MPs Joe Mizzi and Helena Dalli.

Mr Jaeger explained that MIA had been investing into a new extension of the terminal building and other facilities in order for the company to be well-placed to offer the best service when the economic situation improved. An economic turnaround would hopefully happen next year and Mr Jaeger insisted more cooperation between all stakeholders in the tourism sector was necessary.

In June, MIA completed a €25 million project that included an extension of the passenger terminal, more retail and catering outlets, new carousels in the baggage reclaim area and upgrading of the runway and taxiways.

The company also spent €1 million last year to attract new carriers to Malta.

It is pursuing plans to build a business centre on the airport grounds and has already signed up a major tenant.