Thousands of runners and walkers this morning took part in the President's Charity Fun Run, which this year started from four localities and converged on the presidential Palace in Valletta.

Joggers started off from Saqqajja while walkers joined the event from Paola, Sta Venera and Tal-Qroqq. Some 16,000 took part, under bright sunshine. Each contributed €10.  

Those taking part include President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and her husband, the prime minister, who walked the route, and the leader of the opposition, who joined the joggers.

The event was also held to raise funds for the Community Chest Fund, but those present also expressed solidarity with the people of Paris after Friday's terrorist attacks.  

The walkers from Tal-Qroqq walked behind a banner which reads Ninghaqdu Ghall-Paci (United for peace).

A minute's silence was observed before the runners and walkers started off. Silence was also observed when the participants gathered at Palace Square. 

Banif Bank sponsored the walk. 

In message in Palace Square, the President, the prime minister and the leader of the opposition expressed their solidarity with the terrorism victims, and also with those injured this morning in Paceville.

With reference to the Paris incidents, Dr Muscat said the people would not be forced to change their way of life.

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