The Maltese Embassy in Libya has opened a new visa application centre in Misrata, in collaboration with VFS Global.
At the inauguration ceremony, Malta’s Ambassador to Libya, Charles Saliba, delivered a speech emphasising the Embassy’s efforts to enhance commercial and social exchanges between Libya and Malta. He highlighted the aim of fostering closer bilateral relations and promoting a positive narrative about Libya.
Saliba noted that Malta was the first EU member state to establish direct flights to Libya and is now the first Schengen area member to open a visa application office in Misrata. This initiative aims to facilitate visa applications for residents of Misrata and surrounding areas.
“Misrata is considered as a major hub for business activities, as well as a maritime hub with its port and Freezone area and air link with a newly built airport,” the Embassy said in a statement.
Consul Jonathan Engerer, who has been with the Embassy for a year, stated that the opening of the visa centre was a top priority. The event was attended by representatives from the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Libyan Consul in Malta, Mohammed Sherif, and other prominent local figures.
The Malta-based, MedSky Airlines started flights between Misrata and Malta in May 2022, and added flights between Malta and Tripoli on 2 February 2023.
On 11 December 2014, the European Commission banned Libyan airlines from passing over EU member states’ airspace, due to safety control concerns in a country experiencing periodic security tensions.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
