"New Mediterranean Perspectives" at the Royal Institute for International Affairs in Chatham House, London

On Tuesday 7 April 1999, the High Commissioner for Malta in London, Dr George Bonello Du Puis K.O.M., LL.D., delivered a speech at the Royal Institute for International Affairs in Chatham House, London. Among the well-assorted audience present were diplomatic staff from London Diplomatic Missions, journalists and businessmen.

The theme of the lecture was "New Mediterranean Perspectives". During the speech, Dr Bonello Du Puis stressed "that there could be no security in and for Europe without security in the Mediterranean". Particular issues raised during the lecture were the regional and sub-regional groupings which tried to promote co-operation at various levels in the Mediterranean region such as the Euro-Arab dialogue, the Five plus Five, and the Mediterranean Forum.

The High Commissioner augured that the Third Euro-Mediterranean Conference due to be held in Stuttgart next week will be a success. Moreover, Dr Bonello Du Puis said that since Libya has now released the two Lockerbie bombing suspects for trial he hoped that this country will be welcomed in the process. After the lecture, Dr Bonello Du Puis answered several questions from the audience relating to membership of the European Union, the Maltese economy, and Malta's contribution in maritime matters.