US Ambassador Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley yesterday presented her credentials in Maltese, putting a smile on President George Abela’s face, who praised her on her quick mastery of the language.

The two countries had supported each other for more than 200 years

“It’s a big honour for me to be here to present my credentials,” she said, struggling slightly on the last word.

The ceremony was held at the Palace in Valletta.

In a statement issued by the embassy, the Ambassador said the two countries had supported each other for more than 200 years and she looked forward to reaffirming this strong partnership and friendship. She said she hoped to work on issues affecting regional and global stability and human rights, such as supporting the “new democracies” in North Africa, preventing the spread of illicit materials, enforcing international sanctions, and preventing human trafficking.

“Malta has been a strong and valued partner on these efforts, and as President Barack Obama’s representative, I look forward to working closely with the Maltese government on these and many other issues of mutual interest.”

Ms Abercrombie-Winstanley replaced former ambassador Douglas Kmiec, a fervent Catholic who resigned after being castigated in the US for spending too much time writing about his faith.

He was recently in Malta on Dr Abela’s invitation to take part in a discussion on the Constitution where he suggested Malta begin its new Constitution with an acknowledgement of “the Creator of the Universe”.