Xewkija mayor Paul Azzopardi was the guest of honour at the inauguration of a book entitled Malta-Pachino, una storia in comune in a first step towards the twinning of Xewkija with Pachino in Sicily.

The book, by Arnold Cassola and Dilvio Aliffi, speaks about the first Maltese families who set up the city of Pachino. Research by Ray Bondin shows that probably these families came from Xewkija.

The mayor said the city was eager to establish links with the families of Pachino who originated from Xewkija. Pachino mayor Paolo Bonaiuto, who was also present, exchanged gifts with Mr Azzopardi.

Dr Cassola and Dr Aliffi spoke about the research that led to the publication of the book. The seminar, which was well attended, was closed by Dr Bondin, who spoke about his research linking the two cities.

The book will be launched at the Museum of Sculpture in Xewkija on Saturday at 5pm.