Deep down every true Maltese should wish that Valletta will be a great success when it is the Cultural Capital of Europe for 2018.

In fact, I hope that one way or the other, as was originally promised, every town and village will be able to participate and contribute to this unique honour.

Let us all be united. There is no scope for pique. This is the occasion when we can show the world that the people of these islands are capable of forgetting their differences. Without full unity we shall miss a golden opportunity.

A preliminary comprehensive draft programme must be issued now for public comments. As many localities as possible must be included. Culture is not just arts but also the customs and traditions of the Maltese people.

I must highlight the fact that 2018 will mark the 19th century from the martyrdom of St Publius, the prince of Malta who had welcomed St Paul, who died as a martyr in Athens and who was reconfirmed a saint and declared by the popes to beone of the patron saints of our island. St Publiusis the only Maltese mentioned in any holy canonical book.

The Maltese and Gozitan Curia should set up a committee to liaise with the Valletta 2018 Committee and prepare for such celebrations.