A few months ago, in February, many of us gathered here to celebrate the graduation of a group of service dogs.
Loyal companions trained with dedication, patience, and professionalism to improve the lives of individuals and families.
That ceremony was not simply about dogs completing training. It was about dignity. It was about independence. It was about creating opportunities for people who deserve to live full and active lives within our society.
Today, we gather for another important step in that same journey.
During the Chinese New Year celebrations held earlier this year in Malta, I had the pleasure of meeting representatives of the Chinese Embassy. During our conversation, I mentioned the work being carried out by Service Dogs Foundation Malta and the positive impact this foundation continues to make in the lives of so many people.
I shared with them the realities behind this work, the commitment required, the long hours of training, and also the significant financial resources necessary for these service dogs to be properly trained and matched with those who need them most.
Training a service dog is not simply a process. It is an investment in a person’s future.
For this reason, I am deeply grateful that the Chinese Embassy responded with such generosity and sensitivity by agreeing to support Service Dogs Malta through a sponsorship of sixty thousand euro.
This contribution will make a tangible difference.
It will help the foundation continue its mission of ensuring that more individuals and families receive the support, comfort, and assistance that service dogs can provide.
This agreement-signing ceremony is not merely a formal occasion. It is a gesture of friendship, generosity, and solidarity between people who may come from different cultures and backgrounds, yet who share common human values.
On behalf of the people of Malta, I extend sincere thanks to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for this meaningful act of support.
Acts such as these remind us that diplomacy is not only conducted through meetings and formal agreements. Diplomacy is also expressed through compassion, cooperation, and the willingness to contribute positively to the lives of others.
At a time when the world often feels divided, initiatives like this send a different message, one that places humanity, solidarity, and social responsibility at the centre.
I would also like to acknowledge the leadership and commitment of Service Dogs Malta.
You remind us that true progress is measured not only by economic success or technological advancement, but by how we care for those who may require additional support in their daily lives.
The presence of service dogs in our communities should never be seen as something extraordinary. Rather, it should reflect the type of society we aspire to be, a society that removes barriers instead of creating them, a society that welcomes rather than excludes.
May this agreement serve not only as financial support for an important cause, but also as a symbol of friendship between Malta and China, and of our shared belief in the importance of compassion and inclusion.
Thank you once again to the Chinese Embassy for your generosity and thank you to Service Dogs Malta for continuing to transform lives every single day.