Malta, Austria call for European 'comprehensive approach' on migration

During talks held in Vienna this morning, Malta's foreign Minister Tonio Borg and Austrian deputy Chancellor Michael Spindelegger stressed that it is in the interest of all EU Member States to adopt a 'comprehensive approach' on illegal immigration.

The two highlighted the "inevitable links with human trafficking and organised crime, to which those on the periphery are most vulnerable, but which ultimately are a threat for all."

Addressing the emdia after a working lunch, Borg and Spindelegger said that their talks were aimed at further consolidating the excellent relations between the two countries, who share very similar views on most matters related to external relations, including their neutrality.

The two Ministers exchanged views on their countries' respective areas of expertise, with Borg sharing Malta's insight into the events in the Arab world, particularly the transition in Libya, and Spindelegger briefing on developments in the Western Balkans.

The two agreed that Malta and Austria could coordinate their shared positions, which would strengthen the already significant role they are both playing on the international scene, especially within an EU context.

In Vienna, Tonio Borg was accompanied by Malta's Ambassador to Austria Colin Scicluna and Christian Sgandurra, also from the Embassy of Malta in Vienna.