Hon. Prime Minister Abela,

Minister Borg,

Cabinet Members,

Excellencies,

Members of Parliament,

Dear friends,

Tonight, we are gathered here to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Malta. Let me begin by extending a warm welcome to all the distinguished guests for honoring us with your presence.

As a Chinese saying goes,“Nothing, not even mountains and oceans, can separate people with shared goals and visions.” Half a century ago, Prime Minister Dominic Mintoff paid a historic visit to China. With vision and foresight, the elder generation of our leaders jointly forged the friendship between our two countries, and opened a new chapter in China-Malta relations.

For half a century, China and Malta have braved wind and rain and always stood on each other's side. The photo exhibition in the next hall is a window to the glorious journey we have traversed together over these 50 years. We are so proud of what we have achieved. 

Together, we have witnessed the construction of the Red China Dock, the Marsaxlokk Breakwater, and the signing of MOU on “Belt and Road” cooperation. 

Together, we have witnessed the contribution made by the China Cultural Center, the Traditional Chinese Medicine Center, the Confucius Institute to the mutual understanding between our peoples. 

Together, we have witnessed Malta's assistance to China in the evacuation of Chinese nationals from Libya in 2011, and the spirit of brotherhood that defines our joint battle against Covid-19.

On the occastion of the 50th anniversary, President Xi Jinping had a warm and friendly phone conversation with President George Vella. He noted that as old and good friends, China and Malta have forged a close bond that stands the test of time.

Premier Li Keqiang and Prime Minister Robert Abela also exchanged congratulatory messages and committed to push for greater progress of China-Malta relations.

Last month, President Xi Jinping wrote a reply letter to Mr. Martin Azzopardi and his students of the China Corner at St. Margaret College Secondary School, which testifies the ever closer people to people ties between our two countries.

Looking into the next 50 years, we need to draw up a blueprint for cooperation and work to upgrade our relations. We are full of confidence and hope in our joint future.

Two thousand years ago, an ancient Chinese thinker observed, “No rivers and oceans can be formed without the accumulation of streams.” Likewise, the friendship between China and Malta is inseparable from the joint efforts of all friends present.

Here, please allow me to express my highest respect and sincere thanks to all those who have contributed to the growth of China-Malta relations.

Tonight, we are honored to co-host this concert with the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, and co-organise with the Mediterranean Conference Center. Thank you so much indeed.  

Later, the talented musicians from the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will bring to us a feast of music, which I'm sure you will all enjoy. 

With that, I wish you all a pleasant evening, and wish China and Malta greater prosperity and everlasting friendship!