Let's focus on what unites us - President

The sense of nationhood should be strengthened by people focusing on what unites them as Maltese citizens rather than concentrating on their differences, President George Abela said.

This message of unity was delivered by Dr Abela during his first Republic Day speech as President.

"It is my desire that the sense of nationhood should grow and strengthen among us Maltese... What I am trying to say is that our sense of nationhood can develop further if we concentrate on those characteristics that identify us as Maltese - our beloved language, our traditions, our culture, our beliefs, our values, our industriousness and love of family and all that which distinguishes us as Maltese - rather than concentrating on our differences," he said.

Dr Abela said that Europe had a long tradition rooted in Christianity and these roots should remain an important value.

"Although it is accepted that there be separation between State and Church, this does not mean that we should abandon our traditional Christian values and replace them with a void," he said.

The day's official celebrations started off with an Armed Forces of Malta march along Republic Street to St George's Square in Valletta, where a parade was held. As Dr Abela walked across the square to inspect the guard, on-lookers burst into applause, with many commenting that this was not usually done during the ceremony. The applause was repeated after the inspection was completed.

Following the parade, Dr Abela handed out medals during a ceremony at the Palace's Grand Council Chamber.

John Joseph Aquilina and Shaun Wallis were appointed honorary officers of the National Order of Merit and Marie Therese Camilleri Podesta, Miriam Cauchi, Johann de Bono, Charles Magro, Victor Muscat and Francis J. Vassallo, as members.

James Muscat was awarded the medal for bravery and Martin Borg, Gaetano Buttigieg, Lucienne Cachia, Aaron Ciantar, Carmelo Debono, Alfred Palma, John Portelli, Joyce Pullicino, Donat Spiteri and Mater Dei's Intensive Therapy Unit were given a Medal for Service to the Republic.

The Labour Party held a separate ceremony at the foot of the monument in December 13 Road in Marsa.

Labour leader Joseph Muscat expressed regret that the country's sole monument symbolising Republic Day was in a precarious state.