Maltese politicians congratulate Barack Obama

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi is confident that under the leadership of US President-Elect Barack Obama, the excellent relations between Malta and America will be further strengthened.

In a letter he sent to Senator Obama congratulating him on behalf of the government, Dr Gonzi said he looked forward to the further enhancement of the "warm ties of friendship" to the mutual benefit of both peoples.

George Vella, opposition spokesman for foreign affairs, said the fact that the son of an immigrant had been elected US President was proof of the country's democracy and the opportunities it offered.

Electing Mr Obama as the first African-American President was the realisation of Martin Luther King's dream and of those who worked to end racial discrimination in the US.

Throughout his electoral campaign, Mr Obama showed great organisational capabilities: He was calm and in control, knowledgeable, and a good listener who delivered his messages with persuasion.

Above all, he showed he believed in justice, charity and was ready to repair his predecessor's mistakes, Dr Vella said.