Memorable trip

Back in Malta from a memorable and eventful trip to China, where I had the fortune to attend the International Arts and Cultural Children's Festival, in Tianjin, I would like to thank all the media, including The Times, for the publicity they gave to my daughter's achievement in winning the golden prize at the International Painting Exhibition, which is part of this festival.

On behalf of myself and my daughter we would like to thank the municipal government of Tianjin for according us so much warmth and hospitality.

A well deserved appreciation goes to the Malta-China Friendship Society and the Chinese Cultural Centre in Malta for their support. Above all I would like to thank the president of the Malta-China Friendship Society, Reno Calleja, who made all the arrangements for our visit to China and ensured that we were treated like VIPs. Mr Calleja left no stone unturned. He even arranged for us to be interviewed in Tianjin, thus giving publicity to Malta in China.

In China, where we had the opportunity to meet so many other participants from China and abroad, we noted how well known the Malta-China Friendship Society is. We would also like to thank Joe Pirotta, counsellor at Malta's embassy in China, who gave us continuous support and assistance in Beijing and Tianjin.

Finally, I wish to congratulate the Malta-China Friendship Society on its 30th anniversary and hope that its dedication in the promotion of the friendship between the people of Malta and China will continue for many years to come.