Another 12 refugees from Eritrea and Somalia have left Malta to begin a new life in the United States.

Since the US Embassy began its permanent refugee resettlement programme in May 2008, well over 500 refugees have been resettled to the US.

The latest group of refugees will be resettled in cities across the United States, including Houston, Columbus, Salt Lake City, Jersey City, Providence, Raleigh, San José, Baltimore and Stone Mountain.

Commenting on the group’s departure, US ambassador Douglas Kmiec said:

“Every refugee welcomed to the shores of America is following in the footsteps of our American forefathers, and this is indeed, America's story.

“Nothing makes me more proud as ambassador to Malta, then to help those most in need and uphold the humanitarian values, and the legacy of immigration, that make America great.

“The nation is strengthened by the courage, ambition, and vision of those who seek freedom and opportunity in the United States."

Once they arrive in the US, each refugee will be assigned a sponsor agency that provides initial services such as housing, food, and clothing, as well as referral to medical care, employment services, and other support during a transition period lasting up to two years in order to ensure integration and assimilation.