Mr Grech said that the granting of independence to Malta on 21 September 1964 marked the ending of thousands of years of foreign rule. “Therefore today it’s the 50th anniversary of this magnificent event and I would like to express my feelings of respect and gratitude to the politicians and previous Maltese governments who over the years devoted their energy to make Malta an independent nation.” Though a small island nation, Malta has contributed beyond limits of imagination to peace and prosperity no only within its borders but beyond to outer countries of the world, he said
Mr Elsbury said that it is an opportunity to reflect on Malta’s proud history and the relationship between our two great nations. He pointed out that they are two great nations of islands, “ours is a little bit bigger but in any case still an island”.
Having been to Malta last year as part of a Victorian parliamentary delegation, Mr Elsbury said that he spoke with government officials about the challenges they are facing and these are not dissimilar from those being faced by government in Australia like health care and transport.
Malta has come a long way since achieving its independence 50 years ago. In their struggle to independence the Maltese people paved the way to a democratic republic and peaceful nation that Malta is today, he said.
Renowned around the world for its breathtaking coastline and its iconic architecture, Malta has much to teach us in the value of preserving its history and traditions, said Mr Elsbury.
He said that the Maltese are one of the longer lasting communities in Victoria because they paved the way for the many multicultural communities that followed them. The Maltese community in Victoria is one of the largest in the country. We are also grateful to the older generation for sharing their stories, customs and wisdom with us, to be able to continue their culture and give identity to future generations of Maltese who call Victoria their home.
Mr Brooks said that he also wanted to acknowledge the contribution in its efforts during the Second World War. It would be remiss not to mention the suffering of the Maltese people and their courage. They played no small part in ensuring victory in that conflict and securing the freedom that we all enjoy today. He wished everyone a Happy Independence Day and congratulated the MCCV and all the community organisations for providing such an importance service to the fantastic Maltese community.
Fr Agius referred to the three aeroplanes during the war that were named Faith, Hope and Charity. From a religious point of view independence comes from a Jewish concept in the Old Testament. The Jews say that Judaism is not a religion but a nation. To be a nation means to have God who rules over it. During the past 50 years since independence, Malta has grown as a nation because God provides.
Maltese community celebrates 50th Anniversary of Malta’s Independence
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