Independence Day is a landmark in the history of States. It marks the birth of a nation, of a new identity and of a new future for its people. Celebrating Independence Day is always a very special occasion. Independence Day is often linked to democracy, to citizenship as well as to the spirit or the ethos of a nation. It fills every citizen with the joy of belonging to a defined territory, to a flag, to the music of a national anthem and to the words of a patriotic poem or prose.
Such symbols arouse deep emotions because they reflect a sense of belonging. They give, in their own right, a sense of security, identity, ethnicity, freedom and well being. The symbolic representations of an independent nation are among the first non-verbal expressions that every citizen learns so that later on in life, it becomes easier for the individual to appreciate the benefits that one can derive from independence.
Independence Day is often the foundation stone for the safeguarding of human rights, fundamental freedoms and the respect for democracy and diversity.
This is indeed a very symbolic setting for the celebration of such an important day in the history of the American people. It is also significant from my country’s perspective. American ships and particularly the Ohio, along with the British navy brought the much-needed supplies to Malta and thus anchored Malta’s salvation to courage and determination during the difficult times of the Second World War. In many respects such vessels safeguarded our territory, our cultural identity and our freedom from those who believed that suppression could prevail over persuasion. The United States of America and Malta as allies in times of war, are now partners in times of relative peace.
It is with this spirit that on behalf of the People of Malta, I wish to join in your celebration of Independence Day as another step in the path of international peace and prosperity. In our independence as free nation states, we proclaim our commitment to defend peace.
Today’s occasion is therefore an apposite reminder that peace, paradoxically requires, a constant struggle by those who strongly believe that there is no freedom without the structures of democracy. Our two countries are culturally different yet they are close in those ideals that uphold the dignity of our citizens.
In the course of our history, we have managed to build the foundations of political independence upon the free will of our people, upon a spirit of entrepreneurship and upon the humane structures of a sound social welfare system.
In our bilateral relationship, we have consolidated through various ongoing initiatives, sectors such as education, trade and investment, law-enforcement, security, health and international relations. These are the sectors that sustain independence and help nation states, large or small, to move towards long-term inter-dependence. Our citizens, appreciate that our countries are pro-active in satisfying their direct needs and aspirations and that they make every political effort to sustain their quality of life.
Similarly, the many interactions between American and Maltese citizens, and in particular those sought a future in the United States of America, have forged a resourceful partnership at all levels that helped in bringing our two Nation States closer to each other in these last hundred years or so. Such human bridges have significantly narrowed the distance between our shores.
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Malta joins America in its celebration of the 225th anniversary of its Independence. The significance of this joy lies in our belief that our countries are among those that have been in the forefront in defending the rights of our people and in advancing the objectives of a more humane and global society.
We celebrate because our own people can look back and be proud of their past, of our past. We also celebrate because in the future years we know that our social, political, economic and cultural systems will further enhance co-operation and confidence-building between our respective governments and in much wider alliances.
I augur that your Independence will continue to serve your people and the international community in building a better world free from tension, insecurity and cultural prejudices.
I would like to thank the Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United States of America, Madam Deborah Bolton, Commodore Mark Ferguson and Commander Pope for their hospitality on this majestic ship, U.S.S. Thorn.
May I now propose a toast to the President of the United States of America, the Hon Mr George W. Bush and to the people of the United States of America.
