“I would like to thank Malta for its commitment in favour of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and those who follow our religion in your country. Your goodwill towards the Orthodox Church by legally recognising our presence in Malta.” His Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew the First, the Head of the Orthodox Christian Church stressed this in a meeting he had with the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg.
Minister Ian Borg thanked the Patriarch for his visit to Malta. Dr Borg reiterated that it is important that in this time of conflict in Europe, they work towards coming together to respect each other more. “Malta will be forming part of the United Nations Security Council for the next two years and will continue to promote the message of dialogue and peace, even in relation to religious freedom”, stated Minister Borg.
Patriarch Bartholomew the First congratulated our country for its appointment on the United Nations Security Council and augured success in this regard. His Holiness stated that they should continue strengthening the work between the Patriarchate and Malta. He stressed that the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople embraces diversity and continues to unite people, as is also done by the Roman Catholic Church.
Minister Borg and Patriarch Bartholomew the First also discussed the recent meetings they both had with Pope Francis.
Source: Office of the Prime Minister