The Commonwealth Annual Ball, the 2007 Charity Gala, was held in June at the China World Hotel in Beijing. The objective of the ball is to raise awareness of the Commonwealth and to raise funds for worthy charities.

The Embassy of Malta in Beijing was extensively involved in the organisation of the event this year.

The ball was attended by numerous ambassadors, members of the diplomatic community, distinguished guests from the People’s Republic of China and the media.

The event was addressed by ex secretary-general of the Common-wealth Chief Emeka Anyoku, who highlighted the role of the Commonwealth in the changing world of today and stressed the great challenges that the organisation faces in the future. He congratulated all the members of the organising committee for their hard work and perseverance in organising this successful event.

The Commonwealth Society in Beijing (CSB) has agreed that the funds generated from the 2007 Charity Gala will be donated to the Huling Home for the mentally handi-capped and BETHEL foster home for blind children. The event was very successful this year, generating almost EUR20,000 for the above-mentioned charities.

The ball featured a display of national costumes from Commonwealth countries. Malta participated with two costumes – the ghonnella and the “country girl costume”. Daniela Xuereb, the ambassador’s wife and Pauline Briffa wore the costumes.

Maltese folk music including traditional folk songs and works by Etnika were also featured throughout the evening.

The embassy also donated a book on Malta entitled World Heritage Sites in Malta 360°, which was raffled during the evening.

Participation in this event was organised by the Embassy of Malta in Beijing. The event was also attended by members of the Maltese community in the city.