OPR- Tuesday, 13th December, 2005

Republic Day commemorates the founding of the Republic and is the day our People gather to celebrate those who through their outstanding efforts have contributed to shaping this nation’s proud identity, an identity formed over centuries and consolidated in the courageous progression of our country from dependent colony to independent State, Republic and, as of last year, a Member State of the European Union. The Republic of Malta has a strong sense of identity symbolized by its flag, its national anthem and a language of its own. 

The people of Malta are united by a strong sense of solidarity.  We have striven to have an inclusive society which does not marginalize but which is attentive to the needs of the weak and vulnerable.  This is not only reflected in Government policy but also evidenced by the selfless work done by many Maltese on a personal and voluntary basis which goes a long way to knitting a strong moral social fabric among the people of Malta.

The local sense of solidarity also extends beyond our shores as is witnessed by the manner in which the Maltese people have identified with and sought to play their part in reaching out to other nations struck by natural or man-made disasters or otherwise in dire need of support.

Another aspect of Malta’s sense of solidarity is reflected in its foreign policy that also takes into account the Mediterranean dimension that Malta has strengthened within the European Union and seeks to act as a “bridge” across cultural divides.

Malta makes a special contribution on the international plane.  It is a country characterized by its smallness and thus not likely to be perceived as being motivated by any great ambitions or dominated by an “interest” when it is engaged in dialogue.  Our disinterestedness is not the detachment of someone who holds back.  It is more like the disinterestedness of friendship.

Malta is geographically and culturally well-placed to foster and promote a spirit of open dialogue, understanding and communication.  In today’s world this is essential at both the local and the international level.  At the local level I appeal to the People of Malta to be open to dialogue, especially with those who are different from us, whether in their political, religious or other beliefs, or in their traditions, backgrounds and cultures.  I would like to acknowledge the contribution of teachers and educators at all levels of the educational system to fostering among their students the pleasure of debate with those who are different, a most valid contribution to the healing of our bruised world.  I appeal to the University and other institutions of high education to continue to play their part in nurturing a society that embraces a way of relating that is not confrontational, but rather through which one believes that one may learn something from those with whom one disagrees.

On the international plane open dialogue is no less important if we are to avert the much feared “clash of civilizations”.  Malta’s recent hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting constituted an example of leaders coming together to discuss in an open and informal manner issues of common concern to their countries.  It is thus a forum which promotes a sense of solidarity among the Governments and Peoples of the Commonwealth.  I would hereby like to applaud the sustained and coordinated efforts of all those involved in the preparation and organization of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting that was concluded successfully in Malta last month.

Today we honour but a few of the many committed individuals who strove for the sake of our country.  I hereby would like to render a special homage to all those who are not honoured with a public recognition but without whom a drop would have been missing in the ocean of our civilization.