Thirty-eight children were adopted between January and September - 34 from India and four from Slovakkia, Family Minister Michael Falzon said.

He was speaking at a news conference during which he announced the setting up of a collaboration platform between the government the central adoptions authority and the main stakeholders.

The minister said the aim of the platform was to assist those who were involved in the sector in their work in the best interest of children in a tangible manner.

Dr Falzon said the central authority would ensure that various measures to simplify bureaucracy as well as other measures related to direct work with prospective parents were implemented .

This would lead to greater opportunity where professionals working in the sector would be able to share their various experiences and the interests of children would be safeguarded.