When Malta obtained its independence from Great Britain in 1964
its first embassy as a sovereign state was opened in Tripoli,
Libya. This was a clear sign of the close ties and warm
relationship between the two countries, not only then, but for
centuries since the time of our mutual earliest known occupiers,
the Phoenicians, those prolific traders or latter day businessmen.
Malta and Libya have always been of assistance to each other, such
as when Malta received preferential rates for its oil over many
years and when Malta served as Libya's front door during the
period when U.N. sanctions were in force. Now, that Libya's
rapprochement with the rest of the world is complete, its
relationship with Malta is entering a new phase from which both
countries can benefit if the tremendous business opportunities are
fully exploited. It has restored trading links and political
relations with its international partners so as to prosper in
today's global world.
