Prime Minister Joseph Muscat this afternoon expressed his regret following the drowning of at least 94 migrants off Lampedusa and expressed solidarity with the victims' families and Italy.

In a statement to the press, he said that this tragedy should not remain a news headline. It should be a wake up call to the European Union not to leave countries alone in tackling the problem of irregular migration. 

Dr Muscat said the Maltese government had been in contact with the Italian government to express its solidarity.

Dr Muscat said the government welcomed comments by the Italian prime minister seeking action from the European Union and would back him, particularly where he called for changes to EU asylum laws. This was something which Malta had long called for.

So far only words had been heard from Europe, but this could no longer be tolerated, Dr Muscat said.

Just last night, the AFM was involved in assisting two migrants' boats, together with the Italian forces, Dr Muscat said.

Malta would continue to observe its international obligations and continue to save lives, but as from next week, when the EU is due to host a conference about migration, Malta expected solutions from the EU, the prime minister said.

Regarding critical comments about Malta by Italian Senator Roberto Formigoni, Dr Muscat said he did not wish to react to comments which might have stemmed from misinformation. He also did not wish such comments to harm the excellent relationship and collaboration which existed between Malta and Italy.