Three new Heads of Mission presented their diplomatic credentials to the President of Malta, George Vella, at Sant’Anton Palace on Thursday 7th October 2021.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq, Safia Taleb Al-Souhail, was the first to present her Letters of Credence. President Vella conveyed his support to the people of Iraq as they continue on their path of reconstruction and national unity. He also expressed the hope that this inititiative is exploited to strengthen bilateral relations with Malta. Ambassador Al-Souhail gave an overview of the reform process underway, which includes political, economic, and reconciliatory measures intended to meet the needs of the population. They both agreed on the need for good neighbourly relations to prevail in the Gulf, in view of the influence of the region on global stability.
Next to present her Letters of Commission was the High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa, Nosipho Nausca Jean Ngcaba. President Vella said that Malta would welcome an intensification of contacts on all fronts and referred to the sound pattern of cooperation on the multilateral front, primarily through the European Union and the Commonwealth. High Commissioner Ngcaba informed the President that South Africa is keen on sharing best practices and exchanging experiences with Malta in the fields of water supply, fisheries, medical research, and renewable energy. She also referred to the very prominent shipping record that Malta holds on the international level and described it as one of great interest to South Africa.
The third Head of Mission to present his letters of credence was the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden, Andrés Jato. President Vella congratulated Sweden on its chairing of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe throughout the current year. He also referred to the common interests shared by Malta and Sweden in ensuring stability in the Southern and Eastern neighbourhoods of the European Union. Ambassador Jato agreed with President Vella that there are also shared concerns between the two countries on common international challenges, referring to developments in Afghanistan and the issue of migration in particular.
During a working luncheon with the new Ambassadors and High Commissioner, President Vella congratulated them on their distinguished appointments and took the opportunity to wish them all every success in their endeavours.
Source: Office of the Prime Minister