The High Commission of Malta hosted the May Gathering of the Canberra Diplomatic Club at the National Press Club
The High Commission of Malta for Australia and New Zealand had the privilege of hosting May’s gathering of the Canberra Diplomatic Club at the National Press Club on Wednesday, 04 May 2022, attended by a capacity crowd from the Diplomatic Corps, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Maltese Australian Association of Canberra and Queanbeyan and friends.
In his speech, the High Commissioner H.E. Mr. Mario Farrugia Borg spoke about Malta’s strong bilateral relations with Australia, highlighting the Maltese Islands’ rich culture and traditions, derived from its abundant history. He also mentioned that Malta has one of the largest diasporas, estimated around 200,000 Maltese that have integrated and settled in Australia.
The High Commissioner emphasised on Malta’s huge steps forward in various fields, such as financial services, ICT, gaming, maritime activities, and the film industry. The High Commissioner proudly invited everyone to make Malta their holiday destination, renowned for its beautiful historical places, culture, sun and sea.
The High Commission took the opportunity to showcase Malta’s rich history by exhibiting Maltese stamps and banknotes, courtesy of President of the Maltese Association of Canberra & Queanbeyan Inc., Mr. John Vassallo. On display, the High Commission had some of Gozo & Mdina glass pieces together with Malta’s bobbin lace, the bizzilla, courtesy of Mrs. Victoria Muscat, wife of former High Commissioner, Mr. Charles Muscat.
The National Press Club generously served Maltese cuisine, including the traditional Maltese sausage, kapunata (stew vegetable dish) and “patata il-forn” (baked potatoes) for everyone to happily sample and partake.