New Labour government will appoint Cabinet member for European affairs

A new Labour government will appoint a Cabinet member to a portfolio for European affairs, Labour leader Joseph Muscat told members of the diplomatic corps in the annual New Year's greetings he hosted at the PL headquarters today.

Reiterating the importance of Malta's preparation for the 2017 presidency of the European Union, Muscat said the new role would aid in the build-up to the country's responsibilties for the presidnecy.

"This apportionment of responsibility will help the foreign minister focus on a more international plane, as well as put more importance in Malta's role in the Mediterranean region," Muscat said.

The Labour leader also said a new Labour government would build "better relations" with countries in Africa, Asia and the Americas.

Latching on to themes present in speechs by the Prime Minister and the President of the Republic, Muscat also emphasised the need for greater energy from the United States in its diplomatic efforts towards peace in the Middle East.