Malta Independent

Malta's 50th anniversary was marked by speeches given be the Prime Minister, the President, the leader of the opposition and Prince William.

Tonight's event saw a true spectacular in an attempt to unify the Maltese people.

The only complaint on a truly wonderful night was the exclusion of former President Eddie Fenech Adami and former Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi from the list of VVIPs allowed to be on the Upper Barrakka balcony with Prince William.

We must honour our forefathers – President

Malta’s President spoke about honouring our forefathers

“Today marks a commemorative day, a celebration, as independence was a culmination of unity, where Maltese and gozitans fought for their rights together”.

“Independence brought Malta to the forefront of Maltese politics, as an independent nation through the UN and EU. Since that time, Malta has contributed in these international organisations. Since 1967 Malta has distinguished itself. Whilst in the UN, it pushed a request for the sea and its resources to belong to remain under international jurisdiction, in the interest of humanity”.

“The political choices that our forefathers have done, through gaining independence, resulted in Malta becoming a Republic, an end to British military presence in Malta and our entry to the European Union”.

“During times of praise, like today, we must not only celebrate, but we must take this opportunity as a people to reflect on the legacy left to us by previous generations”.

“Our forefathers wanted, through this process, a strong Maltese society with dignity and just values.

Through this we can do justice to the political architectsof this small country, through our strong values.”

“Through this we can assure that Independence and every single event following, they will remain relevant, today and tomorrow”.

“Today our destiny is calling, so as, like our forefathers, we can love our country”.

“Malta is calling us to remain strong in our values, so that together, serenely and in harmony, we continue coming together for our own betterment, and for our families”.

“Our children and youths deserve this and more. Our country must remain committed to working for our values, our liberties, democracy and human rights”.

“Over the years, Malta has distinguished itself from other countries as it has recognised its role, as a catalyst to create dialogue between states, to help find peace and stability in the Mediterranean”.

“This day must marks the story of 50 years of our country and it must be a moment for us to learn and continue our walk forward and our vocation”.

“This is what our children and youths expect”.

“The President quoted part of a speech by former Prime Minister Borg Olivier. ‘Independence means that we need to work, maybe more so than ever before, and work from the heart, because we need to prove to the world that we deserve our independence, that we can operate as a democratic nation, I know our people can bring order and laws to our country, towards economic prosperity, towards our own good and that of our children’”.

A spectacular fireworks display lighting up the Grand Harbour took place, wowing the crowd present at Tal Liesse.

The wounds of our past have closed – PM

In his speech to the people, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat chose to look forward, into the future, and share his hopes and dreams for the country.

“50 years ago, the Maltese people was divided into two political currents, both of which wanted whats best for our country, however they found themselves unable to unite in moments like this. That day, 50 years ago many celebrated, however others protested. Many families realised the milestone of that day, however others suffered as the country still needed to mature in order to stop condemning each other. These wounds have now closed and will never again open”.

“Since that day, one generation after another, we have grown, this is why today is an important day. This doesn’t mean that we won’t argue and disagree and debate. We are here today, together to show the difference from where we were to where we are today”.

“Our greatest accomplishment has been our independence, however this does not compare to what we will accomplish in the coming 50 years”.

“We no longer argue over what was more important, Independence or becoming a Republic”.

“I am convinced of this because without ‘Jum il-Helsien’ and without having become a Republic, I am not a Maltese, without Independence, I am not Maltese”.

“The next 50 years will be easier, with quicker decisions, we will be more courageous, more ambitious. We will not remain motionless, waiting for change to happen. We will be an oasis of economic stability and democracy that will not only make our children proud, but our neighbouring countries proud”.

“Malta, in the next 50 years, will be capable of offering more jobs, doing more good. Malta will be able to create sustainable development, where we can protect the environment whilst progressing forward.

“I believe that in the coming 50 years, Malta and Gozo will see more change. We used to wait years to see any change, however we were able to take breath… through change. We are looking forward and showing that we can truly give direction to others.

“This is the Malta I dream about, the Malta I want to see in the coming 50 years. I believe and urge you to work together for it.

“Look around you, hold each other’s hands, congratulate each other, because today, we find ourselves here… finally together.

“Those fortunate enough to be here 50 years from now to see the first century of Maltese Independence will speak about how we have achieved our dream, and how they will move forward with their own. And on that day, like yesterday and today, the people, all of us… will join together in one shout. “Malta is independent!”

Tonight’s unity must not be temporary – Opposition leader

Opposition leader Simon Busuttil gave his speech and focussed on Unity for the Maltese.

“Today we join together to celebrate 50 years of Independence. It’s a glorious occasion where we all feel Maltese and celebrate our sovereignty together”.

“At the end of a difficult road, Malta… an ancient nation, became a new state. It marked the beginning of a new road as sovereignty was the key that allowed us to make our own choices”.

“Through these choices, we gained more freedom for each and every Maltese man and woman. The real meaning of Independence is independence for each and every one of us, allowing us to be more liberal in our choices”.

“This results in important developments, including the creation of new jobs, an increase in rights for every person, a solidarity system and Malta joining the European Union,” he said.

“We have opened doors, at times whilst not in agreement with each other, as different options are the very essence of democracy. Today, we are able to boast about all the good we have done… and come together”.

“Coming together tonight in celebration will have a stronger meaning should we be able to keep this unity in decisions we make together. Agreement between ourselves on basic principles for a democratic system that works with peoples’ votes on every level, independent institutions that receive help from whoever is in government, the way political parties operate and remove hidden interests, a step which we have already begun to take”.

“In these fields, and others, should we come together, we would be able to make further inroads. Whilst we might not always agree and criticise each other, this must always be done in the spirit of tolerance and civil criticism”.

“We politicians must lead by example and come together. Tonight’s unity must not only be a temporary symbol, but must become a method of politics in Malta,” he concluded.

An aeronautical display has already taken place and a packed Grand Harbour continues to celebrate on Independence eve.

Prior to the speeches to the general public, speaches were given at the Upper barrakka.

I have never been so proud - PM

In his speech, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat spoke about his pride at witnessing Maltese unity.

“It is indeed an honour and a privilege for my wife and I to welcome you all at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, as we celebrate Malta's fifty years of Independence”.

“I must confess, I have rarely been as proud as I am today, in witnessing one people, united not only in celebrating past accomplishments, but, most importantly, united in the resolve to achieve even greater success for our homeland in the future”.

“Malta's first fifty years of independence have been a huge success and we are looking forward to continue transforming this country”.

“Royal Highness, a special word of thanks to you today. Fifty years ago, your grandfather was here to witness this historic achievement. Today, your presence goes to show that independence, a much talked-about term these days, is not about bitter feuds and rivalries, but rather a sense of homecoming, where today Malta and the United Kingdom, albeit different in size, stand together as equals, as friends, in the international family of nations”.

“Allow me also to ask you once again, this time publicly, to convey our warmest regards to the Duchess of Cambridge. We wish her good health, especially in the delicate months that lie ahead”.

“Kindly also convey our deepest regards to Her Majesty, whom we look forward to host next year for the Commonwealth Summit”.

May we never give up on impending challenges - President

“It is my honour and pleasure to welcome you here today, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Malta’s Independence, together with the highest dignitaries of the country”.

“On this memorable day, I wish to convey my country’s heartfelt appreciation of your presence, Your Royal Highness, in this beautiful setting”.

“I would also like to convey our wishes for good health and happiness to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the people of the United Kingdom”.

“On the other hand, I would like to convey particular warm wishes to Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Cambridge. Permit me to take this opportunity to invite and host all the family of Your Royal Highness, including Baby George, in the near future”.

“The story of Malta’s Independence is a kaleidoscope of events which started long before 1964. May the legacy that laid the foundations for the birth of a new nation, 50 years ago, continue to inspire us all today, to never give up on any impending challenges which may loom on the horizon".

“The place where we stand today looks out on to the magnificent Grand Harbour. Its natural enclave served many British military vessels, while it was here, that over and again, Malta forged its resilience in the face of adversity and distress”

“Malta stood the test of time, aware of its limitations, as well as, of its firm determination, to safeguard its identity and noble values. This was evidenced soon after the acquisition of Independence, when Malta, immediately became a member of the United Nations and the Council of Europe”.

“Malta’s role as member of the Commonwealth left its mark in the various initiatives taken up over the years in areas, such as, education, capacity-building, good governance, and an incessant effort to bring people closer together through dialogue and connectivity”.

“Malta will be hosting next year’s Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting – another legacy from our time as a British colony, which has stood us in good stead”.

“We look forward to contributing effectively in making the necessary changes and reforms to make this most important organization relevant to today’s’ challenges. The commonwealth is an ideal platform for today’s turbulent realities by bringing its’ 53 nations together in dialogue. The Commonwealth can truly be a source of motivation to contribute effectively to the much needed stability on the globe”.

“Malta’s Independence also meant a new chapter in the history of its foreign policy”.

“While immediately establishing bilateral relations with a significant number of countries, Malta also sought to model its foreign policy, on the strength of its location, to serve as a hub for dialogue between Northern Africa and Europe, whilst never shedding its deep-rooted European identity”.

“Its role as ‘nurse of the Mediterranean’ was repeatedly manifested, through humanitarian initiatives, which only recently rendered it crucial, for the evacuation of thousands of foreign citizens from war-torn Libya”.

“Today, I am proud to represent my country, at the highest level, and give testimony of a young but dynamic democracy, which grew under the shadows of far more powerful states, to emerge as a nation state, built on the notions of democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law”.

“Since 1964, Malta’s socio-political, economic and commercial infrastructures have been radically transformed”.

“Today, Malta is a member of the European Union, committed to a stronger Europe, and a more stable Mediterranean. We firmly believe that unless there is peace and stability in the Mediterranean, there can be no peace and stability in Europe”.

“Our two countries managed to brave the waves of aggressive competition, which recently surged due to the financial crisis that hit Europe in 2008. We managed to prove to the world, and to ourselves, that with the right mindset anything is possible”.

“No wonder that in spite of all the economic instability, our two countries continued to strengthen their bilateral cooperation, in several areas of mutual interest, including trade flows, tourism, the education and health sectors and banking, amongst others, and along the way, also strengthening our historically deep relations,” the President said.

“Having just returned from a fruitful visit to London, I am pleased to announce yet further opportunities for cooperation and that are relevant to people’s lives today”.

“We have established a way forward with the Prince’s Trust, which was founded by his Royal Highness, Prince Charles, and which supports vulnerable young people who are unemployed or struggling at school, and are at risk of social exclusion”.

“We have seen firsthand the advanced negotiations between Malta and St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London, for the setting up of a medical school in Gozo. We have agreed with Children with Cancer UK Foundation, to collaborate in research in the area of cancer in children, and are negotiating in training of healthcare professionals in various hospitals throughout London”.

“We are also looking forward with effective collaboration with Fareshare Uk at this particular moment when Malta will be having its very own Malta Food Bank soon, and this after our visit to this organization in London this week”.

“There is no better way to celebrate this important milestone in the relatively young political timeline of our country”.

“At a time of conflict in several parts of the world, especially the Mediterranean, we need to reaffirm our commitment, towards democracy and solidarity, through an ongoing process of dialogue to achieve long-lasting peace”.

“Let us now celebrate the health of His Royal Highness Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, as well as the excellent relations and friendship between Malta and the United Kingdom on this most important historical occasion, the 50th anniversary of Malta’s Independence”.

Malta... a confident and proud nation – Prince William

Prince William expressed his thanks to the Maltese people.

“Thank you for such a warm welcome. I must admit I feel honoured to represent the UK even though we only found out a few days ago. My wife expressed her apologies she could not be here”.

He conveyed a message from the Queen; “Prince Phillip and I express congratulations to Malta on her 50th year of Independence. We have fond memories of your country having been there a number of times through our lives. We’ve seen Malta develop into the confident and proud nation we see today. We are grateful for always making us and our family feel welcome”.

“This really is a beautiful country and I look forward to exploring more in the next 24 hours,” Prince William concluded”.

Distinghuised guests gathered at the Upper Barrakka to meet Prince William and watch the whole show.

As the sun set and day gave way to night, a fireworks spectacular, an aeronautical display and speeches by the President, the Prime Minister and Leader of the opposition were given to commemorate Malta's golden anniversary. following the speeches, live music, by Maltese singers saw cheering from the crowd by the stage set up along the harbour.