The Archbishop has appealed to the State to bear in mind the ethical dimension in any discussions being held with other countries on immigration.

In a statement issued following reports involving the recent tragedy in the Mediterranean, with five surviving Eritreans saying they were accompanied by another 73 who lost their life during the journey, Mgr Cremona said deliberations could have as a starting point the health and safety of the human person.

"Only with that at the fore, should solutions at a political level be sought."

Malta, he said, should recommend to other states to not only concentrate on the repatriation of those who sought asylum, but to also also enter into discussions with the governments of the countries which they fled for their security to be safeguarded.

"Any political solution that endangers the health and safety of these persons is unjust.

"Our discussions with neighbouring countries regarding territorial waters should not centre around which particular state is not responsible to ensure the safety of these people whose lives are endangered, but rather, before any permanent political solutions are found, it should be clarified exactly who is duty-bound to help them, whichever country they land in."

This decision, Mgr Cremona said, could not be left until a precise moment of crisis and it should not be discussed following a tragedy.

"I appeal to our country to be a leader where ethical values are concerned.

"The Church in Malta is offering its full support on this count. I appeal also to all Maltese citizens, especially those who are motivated by Christian ethical values, to offer encouragement, in a spirit of solidarity, to those members who represent us during these discussions."