Even the outgoing MEPs from the new member states, who served initially as observers, received the medal representing Europa and a certificate of thanks from Mr Poettering and were personally thanked by him for their contribution.

These included Mario de Marco and Jason Azzopardi, both PN MPs, who took up the post of observer MEPs from 1 May until 20 of this month when the newly-elected European Parliament will be inaugurated. Dr Michael Frendo and Prof. Josef Bonnici had been the first Maltese EPP (PN) observer MEPs since 5 May 2003.

Head of the current EPP (PN) delegation, Dr Simon Busuttil, thanked Dr Frendo and Prof. Bonnici for their contribution and remarked that both were highly esteemed by the EPP Chairman for their efforts for Malta as members of the Regional and Economic Monetary Affairs Committee.

Prof. Bonnici’s remarkable efforts and assiduity in ensuring that Malta obtains funds as an island-state have placed Malta’s EPP delegation on a good footing.

Upon receiving the bronze medallion, Mario de Marco remarked that this had been a short but unique experience and surely this was not an adieu but an au revoir.

Mr Poettering, who came to Malta on an official visit last April, concluded that all those who have been in touch with the EPP will always be considered as members of the family.