Insellmilkom u nilqagħkom għal dan l-ewwel forum virtwali għaż-żgħażagħ Maltin li jgħixu barra minn pajjiżna.
On the opening of the 1st Virtual Youth Forum for Maltese Living Abroad, I am pleased to speak with you and to welcome you for this unique opportunity of dialogue. This exchange of ideas on Maltese culture and heritage is intrinsically linked to our rich historical past and vibrating present times.
Using modern technology, we are able to connect with each other and enjoy the benefits of multilateral dialogue across the globe. Most importantly, we are here today, giving birth to a novel tool of cultural diplomacy and meaningful interaction with the Maltese diaspora.
Together, we are witnessing the evolution of a new chapter in the history of our beloved Maltese islands.
The departure of people from Malta in the early and mid-20th century propelled whole generations of predominantly young people to distant lands and novel working opportunities. Youths like yourself left their family and their homes to travel far and develop further their talents and skills. These young migrants are the parents and grandparents of many of you joining us today for this virtual forum. Nowadays, we are witnessing a new aspect of migration as our young professionals move on a temporary basis to up-and-coming destinations such as Brussels, Luxembourg, and the UAE.
Malta is proud of its diaspora’s successes and holds dearly the established friendly ties developed through the Council for Maltese Living Abroad. I encourage you to be active participants in the Council and continue the sterling work of past and current members.
I take the opportunity to wish you a fruitful forum and invite you to explore through research, respectful dialogue and people-to-people exchanges the timeless beauty and importance of Maltese Culture and Heritage.
Saħħa.