‘Malta could play an important role in rebuilding Libya’ – Abdul Aziz

There was "no way" that Libya could build its democratic institutions alone, Foreign Minister Mohamed Abdul Aziz said today.

Addressing a joint conference with Foreign Minister George Vella following the signing of a memorandum of understanding, Abdul Aziz said Malta could play a very important role in providing effective contribution in achieving peace and security in Libya and the Mediterranean region.

"Malta could play a very important role in the rule of law and security governance," the Libyan minister said.

He insisted that Libya was working hard to build its security and judiciary structures.

"We are in a post-conflict situation and it's not like we have a magic wand to build institutions over night. But we are committed to see this democratic transition through. It's not only about having these institutions, but it's also about joining forces," he said.

"Libyans have been indoctrinated to serve one regime. Democracy has a price... We don't mind if we lose people because that's part of the whole process."

On irregular migration, Adbul Aziz said Libya should also be looking at the development side of the issue and not merely stopping at the security approach.

He went on to appeal to the European Union to stand beside Malta: "Dealing with organised crime and human trafficking should not be the effort of one single country, but a collective effort. And Malta has done its best to be Libya's advocate."

He insisted that Libya's failure to build its democratic institutions would also be the "responsibility of the countries who stood beside us".

"There is no way we can do this alone," the Libyan minister insisted.

Speaking on the various factions and militias in the North African country, he said the Libyan government wanted a national reconciliation process, but it "could not allow the hampering of this democratic process". He insisted there were terrorist groups financing the fighting.

In an appeal to the people of Libya, Abdul Aziz urged his fellow nationals to "use your wisdom".

"If you love Libya, you should come back home and fight for democracy."

He added that Libya would also ensure fair trials while respect for human rights would prevail.

On his part, Minister Vella said Malta was saddened by the recent conflict and expressed confidence that the neighbouring country would overcome this challenge.

"Malta is your friend and a partner to see this journey through, to ensure that the democratic transition succeeds. We are committed to a safe and stable Libya," Vella said.

The MoU, signed between the two ministers was described as "setting the pace for the intensification of contacts and exchanges at both expert and political level".

The MoU was signed during the 27th session of the Maltese-Libyan joint commission. It was held within the framework of "the historically close and friendly ties" between the two countries. Agreed minutes were endorsed and signed by the two ministers.

Discussions primarily focused on sectors with a potential for deeper bilateral cooperation, especially in health, energy, culture and education. Special emphasis was laid on the international effort to help and ensure the development of institutions and border control in Libya.

In depth discussions on transborder issues, including irregular migration and regional security were held.

On its part, Malta reiterated its commitment to assisting the North African country in completing the democratic transition process Libya embarked upon with the revolution in 2011.

On the oil products MoU signed between the two countries earlier this year, Abdul Aziz said energy minister Konrad Mizzi should follow up on the visit made by his Libyan counterpart with a visit to Libya.

He said that one had to understand that Libya has already lost 7 billion dollars from its oil industry as before it used to pump up around 1.5 million barrels a day. He however said he was "optimistic" that the situation would improve.