President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker has been conferred with Honorary Membership of the National Order of Merit in the Grade of Companion with Star.

The ceremony was held at The Palace, Valletta in the presence of Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and other dignitaries. Honorary Membership in the National Order of Merit can be conferred to foreigners who distinguish themselves in the promotion and strengthening of international relations or who have gained the respect and gratitude of the Maltese people.

In his speech, President Vella noted how successive local governments, since joining the European Union, have sought to strengthen EU values and reflect them in their policies. Malta, the President continued, has learnt how to work together with the European Union to look for solutions both locally, and for all other Member States.

President George Vella continued to note how, upon taking office on 1 November 2014, President Juncker inherited an EU that was coming out of one of the worst financial crises the world had experienced in recent times. The Juncker Commission has subsequently contributed on various fronts, including the adoption of the UN Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and the Paris Climate Agreement.

The President concluded by congratulating outgoing President of the European Commission Juncker for his unwavering effort to promote and foster international dialogue, as well as for his unstinting efforts to strengthen relations between Malta and the European Union.