Malta’s archbishop, Charles Scicluna recently visited the MV Lifeline, the NGO-operated rescue vessel that rescued various migrants over the summer. This visit comes amidst the current negotiations at the European Commission to relocate some 300 migrants who were rescued by the Malta Armed Forces and two NGO vessels in recent weeks.

The archbishop said, “Human life is priceless and negotiations should never take place at the expense of people who are suffering.” Archbishop Scicluna continued to reiterate his call for European solidarity on migration and quick action to save the 49 people who have been left at sea for days on end on board two NGO ships.

With discussions between the EU and certain member states currently underway, Pope Francis also voiced his concerns on the matter. Following the recital of the Angelus in St Peter’s Square yesterday, he said, “I am making an urgent appeal to EU leaders to show concrete solidarity towards these people.”

Will the authorities hear their cries?