A large number of guests enjoyed the reception hosted by the German ambassador Mr Georg Merten and his wife Ada. His Excellency, in a speech which was partly delivered in Maltese, spoke of the determination of both countries to work together and referred to the signing in Rome, later this month, of the EU’s Constitutional Treaty binding 450 million people in 25 states. He commented that the relationship between the two countries was excellent and that whereas Malta had celebrated its 40th anniversary as an independent state Germany was only celebrating its 14th anniversary as a reunited country.

The President too said a few words and ended by proposing a toast to friendship and co-operation between Malta and Germany, saying that the relationship had proved to be very fruitful, with considerable German investment in the island, and Germany being one of Malta’s leading export markets. After the two national anthems were played the party continued with a swing.