Malta’s prompt and effective humanitarian response in the wake of the exodus of foreigners living or working in Libya, due to the crisis there, is further proof of how this country is always ready to heartily and effectively offer a coordinated helping hand to people in dire situations, whoever they may be and wherever they come from.
It is very significant that Malta’s peaceful arms are once again extended and wide open, this time primarily through its facilities at the airport and Grand Harbour, to serve as a first port of call and give refuge to so many evacuees from so many countries.
On account of their geographical position, these islands have been of great strategic importance on more than one occasion.
The fortifications that feature so prominently in this country’s architecture recount past struggles against the threats of invaders. The George Cross that features on the national flag also testifies to our people’s great courage during the dark days of the last World War. Indeed, Malta had a lot to face and carry on its shoulders while being at the crossroads of many of the great events in European and Mediterranean history. Nonetheless, Malta, a peace-loving country, has always been very ready to also play key roles when, for various reasons, other people sought its solidarity or support.
Such approach is also witness to this country’s resolve to contribute as best it can towards encouraging full respect to human rights of individuals and of peoples, founded on the principle that every human being is a person, endowed with dignity, intelligence and free will.
Malta does not have a history of aggression but has always sought peace, extended solidarity and protected human dignity. That is what it is doing now.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognises that the same rights belong to every individual and to all peoples. The declaration has contributed to diffusing a spirit that places liberty, justice and peace as priorities in human action and in the choices made by those in government. Even so, humanity painfully continues to see that, in many places, human rights, so well expressed, are still ignored and violated.
Malta strongly shares the view that fundamental human rights are inviolable and universal because they stem from the unity of human nature and from the equality of persons, whose rights and freedoms, rooted in human dignity, precede the positive right that expresses them. This means the rights and freedom of the person are inscribed within human nature and are not an expression of culture, although this is also necessary to be integrated into the life of a society.
Beyond its own borders, Malta is esteemed for its efforts to promote true and effective appreciation of human rights, dialogue, cooperation, commitment to educating consciences in peace and reconciliation and respectful coexistence. That has always been its mission and should be acknowledged by all.
The evidence confirms, whether in the events still unfolding but also in the past, Malta’s commitment to put its skills and strengths to ever greater use to serve as a bridge of solidarity and understanding between peoples and cultures, particularly those surrounding the Mediterranean.
As a lot more has still to be done to build relationships of genuine trust and fruitful dialogue, events continue to demonstrate how well placed Malta is to be a bridge-builder while holding out the hand of friendship to neighbours to it north, south, east and west.