The President of the Republic of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, has told members of the  Diplomatic Corps that if current and future generations are to enjoy the tranquillity and security of enduring peace, "we must be vigilant and curb the rising waves of excessive nationalism and the ugly head of imperialist ambitions."

In her New Year's greetings to the Diplomatic Corps, the President highlighted the key role Malta played in the international diplomacy scene throughout 2024. She commended their work with the situation in the Middle East, Ukraine, and as central voices in international fora - specifically within the United Nations Security Council and in chairing the OSCE in December.

President Spiteri Debono remarked that Malta's history has shaped its international mission, which she said is founded on the "active pursuit of peace and social progress among all nations." She spoke positively of Malta's neutrality being enshrined in the Constitution.

"The declaration of our neutrality does not impede us from being active members of international society, or from working towards peace, security, and social justice. Rather, this neutrality is a strong declaration that Malta shall in no way be a threat to the sovereignty and security of any other nation," the President commented.

During her speech, she told ambassadors and High Representatives that Malta shall continue to collaborate with them and their respective nations "to strengthen the international rule of law, promote economic development, and safeguard the rights of vulnerable populations."

The President stated that promoting peace, security, prosperity, and stability are impossible for any nation to achieve alone, and that these values can only be achieved via "the concerted efforts of all actors."

"It is only through diplomatic collaboration that we can address the root causes of conflict and build a more inclusive and equitable world," she said.

President Spiteri Debono noted that countries can be brought closer together through shared commitments to bridging cultures, advancing mutual interests, and facilitating such dialogue.

She also described that between May and November of this year, Malta will take up the mantle of the Presidency of the Council of Europe, and detailed four priorities that Malta will promote during this period. These priorities are the protection of children, combatting violence and discrimination, empowering young people in democratic life, and safeguarding the European Convention on Human Rights.

Concluding her speech, the President commended the work of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, for allowing Malta to make "significant strides" in its international mission as a promoter of peace and security amongst all nations.

She then thanked everyone present for their and their respective government's cooperation before encouraging them to continue deepening their bilateral diplomatic relations with the Maltese islands. She also said that their "esteemed and continuous support will be indispensable as we continue working to contribute to the common good of humankind."