On 27th August 2026, the Chinese Embassy in Malta and the Special Olympics Malta (SOM) has jointly held a partnership agreement signing ceremony for the European Swimming Open 2026. H.E. Ambassador Zhang Zuo and Dr. Lydia Abela, wife of the Prime Minister of Malta and the President of the SOM addressed the event. Maltese atheletes and their families, coaches attended.
Dr. Lydia Abela welcomed the Chinese delegation and expressed her gratitude for the continued strengthening of relations between the Republic of Malta and the People's Republic of China. "We strongly believe that athletes with intellectual disabilities deserve the same opportunities and recognition as all athletes," she said. "Malta remains committed to supporting all individuals and ensuring no barrier leaves anyone behind. Together, we are sending a strong message to the world: every athlete deserves an opportunity to shine." Dr. Abela thanked the Ambassador for his support in partnering for the Games, and voiced her hope that the collaboration will continue not only on the field of play but also in health advocacy and education.
H.E. Ambassador Zhang commended the work of SOM, emphasizing that the upcoming Special Olympics European Open Swimming Competition will set an example for inclusion in Europe and beyond, serving as a celebration of the common values shared by all humanity. He noted that China has put forward the four Global Initiatives and remains committed to building a community with a shared future for humanity. By joining hands in support of Special Olympics, we can foster solidarity and work toward a more inclusive future for all.
The Special Olympics European Swimming Open 2026, which is Malta's second major international Special Olympics event, will once again place the country on the world stage, offering swimmers with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to compete at the highest international level. The event goes far beyond the pool. Parallel programmes such as the Healthy Athletes screenings will promote health, inclusion and wellbeing, with dedicated opportunities for athletes and families to participate.
