Christmas greetings message by H.E. George Vella for the Maltese living abroad

December 2023

As we come together to celebrate this special time of year, Miriam and I extend our warmest wishes to each and every one of you. Christmas is a time of joy, reflection, and connection, and it is with great pleasure that I reach out to our Maltese diaspora spread far and wide.

The Christmas season is a time when families and communities come together, sharing love and goodwill, is reflected in our values.

This Christmas, I urge you to take a moment to reflect on our values as Maltese – the values of community, resilience, and compassion. As we gather with our loved ones, remember that you are an integral part of the Maltese family, no matter where you are around the world. Although Malta is a small country, being Maltese goes further, and we can say that Malta is everywhere around the world in the heart of every member of the Maltese diaspora.

As Maltese islands we have a unique history and culture. The ability to see the Maltese diaspora contribute to the international sphere instills a sense of pride. The Maltese have gained their reputation as a successful and determined people. It is inspiring to see Maltese and others of Maltese descent make a name for themselves but also for their country. Their achievements, resilience, and commitment to preserve Malta’s heritage sets an example to all. I would therefore like to express my gratitude for the impact they are leaving in their respective areas.

I would like to take a moment to highlight the importance of Malta’s linguistic and cultural heritage. One of the ways in which we can communicate between us is through language. In a world where globalisation means the prevalence of social media, it should serve as an opportunity to preserve and promote our language. Our language is a reflection of the courage and strength our ancestors have shown by retaining our autonomy and heritage. Let us cherish and preserve this unique treasure that brings us together, that helps us find our roots and that serves as a symbol of our national identity.

As we celebrate Christmas, we should also take the opportunity to celebrate our culture, which also resonates with the traditions we have attached to these times in order to cherish Maltese heritage and what unites us as Maltese.

I would also like to show my appreciation to the Maltese diaspora for welcoming me during my visits to their home country. The hospitality I’ve seen in Ireland, UK, USA, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Greece, Australia, and beyond, is really appreciated. Your enthusiasm, as well as your commitment to maintaining a strong link between the diaspora and Malta have left an unforgettable impression on me. Thank you for being ambassadors of our country and for upholding the values that make us proud to be Maltese.

We should also be grateful for the fact that we will be able to spend this Christmas with our loved ones. Whether in the last year we have lost loved ones, or experienced difficult times, for many of us, we have been lucky to live in the safety and security that allows us to be together at this special time. Let us take a moment to think of those who are less fortunate than us. In the past year, we have seen an increase in conflicts around the world like in Ukraine, Israel and Palestine, among others. It is in these places where people will not be able to celebrate Christmas as we will be able to do so. Once again, I would like to extend my heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.