A new secretariat aimed at fostering dialogue between the EU and Arab states was a "natural progression" for Malta which had worked hard to act as a bridge between the two blocs.
Foreign Minister Tonio Borg said the EU-Arab League liaison office in Floriana opened a new chapter in the relations between the European Union and the league of Arab States.
Malta's vocation had always been firmly European, but nonetheless Mediterranean, he said during yesterday's official inauguration of the secretariat.
The office was opened by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, the EU's External Affairs Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner and the Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa.
"The Arab world and the EU mutually represent strategic neighbouring regions. It is thus vital to have an established dialogue, not because it is convenient to do so but because politically, it is the right thing to do," he said.
For years, European perception of the Arab world ignored the potential for cooperation in several different spheres but if the premise of equal partners was accepted, one could look ahead to a future of increased cooperation.
He said the EU and the Arab States should find common ground in areas of economic activity, as well as in areas of tourism, education, sports and civil protection.
Dr Gonzi said the office, which would have an initial injection of €500,000 from the EU, was bringing the European and Arab world closer. The office would be generating activity in specific areas which were not just political but would deal with climate change, sea pollution, water problems, immigration and all aspects impacting on the normal everyday life of citizens.
This was a first but very important step recognising Malta's vocation and the country was committed to make it a success.
Ms Ferrero Waldner said the setting up of the office was the realisation of a common political will to work on a common project.
The European Commission had approved €70 million to set up the Union for the Mediterranean project. This office did not hamper this project but worked in tandem with it.
Mr Moussa described Malta as the embodiment of Mediterranean society and culture.
He said while it was true there was a clash of civilisations, this was caused by extremists who put dialogue aside and instead pointed their guns and acted as terrorists.
"But now we are entering a new era where we show our readiness to work together. We have to prove that by our performance, we show everybody that there is value added work that will be beneficial to both groups of countries," he said.