Gonzi congratulates Libya's new assembly president

Prime Minister Lawence Gonzi congratulated newly appointed President of the Libyan Assembly, Mohammed Magarief.

Libya's newly elected interim assembly elected the former opposition activist as its president on Thursday.

In an official letter, Gonzi said "On behalf of the government and the people of Malta, I would like to congratulate you on your historic election as President of Libya's newly elected congress."

Gonzi added that when the pair met in March "there was no doubt in my mind that you would play a fundamental role in the rebuilding of Libya and its integration in the international fold as a democratic and respected partner."

In his letter Gonzi expressed his optimism for Libya's future and said "Your election is yet another of those historic steps and brings with it a great moral responsibility to steer Libya into a new era. I have no doubt that you are up for the challenge."

He added "Malta will stand with your country as a neighbour, but above all as a good friend, during the next stages of the development of the Libyan state."

The Prime Minister stressed that the two countries share the same vision for a peaceful and prosperous Mediterranean as well as strong political and economic ties between the two countries.

Magarief will lead the assembly in its task of appointing a prime minister and running the country until a constitution is drafted next year. He is considered a moderate Islamist and beat a liberal in the vote.