Gonzi hails Malta's humanitarian role during Libya conflict

Prime Minister Lawrrence Gonzi acknowledged Maltese NGOs in his speech to the United Nations General Assembly f or setting up projects to assist in the current turmoil in North Africa. Government was said to have financially contributed to alleviating the suffering through UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). 

The issue of illegal immigrants arriving in Malta as a result of the Libyan and North African situation was also raised. Gonzi asked for “international solidarity and burden sharing”. But he also added that Malta is providing refuge for those leaving Libya.

“As a member of the European Union as well as the International Contact Group on Libya, my government has over the past months, provided a humanitarian hub for the evacuation of nearly 20,000 persons," Gonzi said.

Gonzi celebrated the Libyan NTC’s determination to achieve “human rights and fundamental freedoms” for the population. He added that Egypt and Tunisia also should be encouraged and helped in their democratic transition with the support of the EU.

The Israeli-Palestinian negotiation talks were required “to embark on meaningful and sustainable negotiations remains the overriding goal,” said Gonzi. He added that efforts made by the EU to make these happen will be fully supported by Malta.

In light of the 9/11 anniversary, Gonzi condemned terrorism worldwide including North Africa and said, “we must continue to promote and protect human rights across the world.” Gonzi also discussed the Universal Declaration on Human Rights previously proposed in 2009 for all member states to take responsibility and “embrace” duties at an international level.

“Malta strongly believes that such a Declaration would strengthen that solidarity which our rapidly changing world demands,” said Gonzi.