The Armed Forces of Malta this morning welcomed 48 new recruits in a passing out parade at Luqa Barracks.

AFM commander Martin Xuereb welcomed the newly enlisted soldiers and said that 651 people had applied to join when the applications had been issued some months ago.

Brig. Xuereb stressed the importance for soldiers to be united and to feel part of a family. They had to understand the need to do sacrifices, bet determined and work for the common good.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi spoke on the army's important role in the evacuation of people from Libya and its particiation in saving the lives of hundreds of people involved in the human tragedy of immigration.

"You have saved hundreds of lives - mothers, fathers and children. Our country and our people are not indiferent. the army responds to help in every circumstance, good or bad weather, day or night.

"For this and for all the work you shall be doing, you have my and the people's admiration," he said.

The new recruits have been undergoing basic military training for the past 18 weeks.

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