On the occasion of the National Day of Ireland, I welcome the opportunity to address you through this short message. I convey my sincere greetings to His Excellency, the Ambassador, all his team at the Embassy, as well as all the members of the Irish community working and living in Malta.
A year ago, I spoke to you about the long-standing friendship between the people of Malta and the People of Ireland. I also mentioned the historical traditions linked with the feast of Saint Patrick, the Irish Shamrock and the colour green. Last year, we celebrated the 17 of March under a dull cloud called Covid.
This year, unfortunately, we still continue with our uphill battle against this threat.
We also have to come to terms with the unbearable suffering that the people of Ukraine are going through.
We – as Europeans committed to value democracy – cannot but join in the strong condemnation of the events we are witnessing and express our full solidarity with the resilient and brave people of Ukraine.
Joining Irish people from across the globe to reflect on unity through diversity, we have an opportunity to use this occasion to highlight our shared vision for an empathic, socially just, and peaceful world.
I take this occasion to congratulate Ireland’s successful contribution to the UN Security Council and reconfirm Malta’s commitment to work hand in hand with likeminded countries to promote diplomacy and dialogue as an epitome for a sustainable, environmentally conscious and serene future.
The sensations we lived through in the past months, and the increased sense of division, should make way for a fresh start. The Republic of Malta looks forward to collaborating further with Ireland to promote sustainable development and prosperity for all.
In this regard, I am looking forward to have the pleasure in the near future to welcome to Malta, on a State Visit by His Excellency the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins; an occasion that will further promote the long standing friendship and the mutual respect enjoyed by our two countries.
I also take this opportunity to thank the Irish Embassy in Malta and the Embassy of Malta in Ireland for their commitment to act as a conduit facilitating cultural interaction between our respective peoples and further strengthening political dialogue and commercial opportunities for the better promotion of stronger bilateral relations between our two countries. In conclusion of my short message, I convey my warmest salutations to President Higgins, a truly stalwart leader in promoting diplomacy, and on behalf of the people of Malta I wish to you and your families a serene and healthy St Patrick’s Day.