US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, has issued a message to the people of Malta on the occasion of the opening of the new US embassy at Ta' Qali.

"This new embassy is a powerful symbol of the US commitment to Malta's future," she said.

"The people of the United States and Malta enjoy a long and storied kinship, deeply rooted in our shared commitment to liberty and democracy. Maltese nationals stood side by side with Americans as we fought for our Independence, and again, almost 200 years later, in the Second World War.

Malta, she added, was reaffirming the strength of this enduring partnership and its commitment to freedom by joining the United Nations effort in North Africa is support of those struggling for democracy.

"The international community remains deeply appreciative of Malta's ongoing role in providing humanitarian assistance, medical treatment, security, and logistical support to those in need.

"On a personal note, the support of the Maltese people was critical to the successful evacuation of U.S. Embassy personnel in Tripoli, and for that, myself and the American people are deeply grateful.

"Malta has always been a nation of great strategic importance to the world. I am so thankful for the Maltese Government's assistance in providing emergency landing services for NATO planes engaged in operations in Libya, ensuring a safe return home for our pilots. Time and time again, Malta has demonstrated an unyielding commitment to the United Nations and the human rights of the people of Libya, the Mediterranean region, and the world."