President underlines unity in Milied Flimkien message

President George Abela in a message to mark the opening of the Milied Flimkien campaign this evening urged all Maltese to forget their differences and to remember those things which united them.

In a message issued through a press statement since he undergoing treatment in hospital, Dr Abela said there was a lot which united the Maltese people.

"We all work towards the same ends, each one of us in his own ways and according to his conscience. We all hold the country and society at heart and we all want to see the people of Malta and Gozo live in peace and prosperity. Whenever there is disagreement, this is not the result of animosity but because, in a democracy, debate and dialogue are essential," Dr Abela said.

The Milied Flinkien campaign of activities is traditionally launched in a ceremony attended by the President, the Prime Minister, the Archbishop and the Leader of the Opposition but Dr Abela was hospitalised yesterday after fainting. His office said he is responding well to treatment for low blood pressure.

Dr Abela said Christmas was a religious and civil celebration which highlighted Malta's traditions and values of family unity, a renewal of friendships and generosity to those in need.

The President referred to the forthcoming l-Istrina events and said that while this year no gifts would be offered to donors, he was confident that the people would still give generously because what they got in return was the inner peace and satisfaction of helping those who were in need, whether such needs were material or medical treatment.

This, he said, was a distinguishing value which Maltese society should always cherish.