On Thursday, at the President's Palace in Sant'Anton, the book Ġorġ Borg Olivier, il-bniedem, il-politiku, il-missier ta' Malta Indipendenti was officially launched. The book was authored by veteran journalist Michael Caruana and published by the Nationalist Party to mark the 60th anniversary of Malta's Independence.

In her opening speech, President Myriam Spiteri Debono expressed that, since her youth, Ġorġ Borg Olivier had inspired her with his wisdom, prudence and ability to wait for the right moment before making critical decisions.

She stated that although she considers herself a Republican and has always wished for Malta to become a Republic, she acknowledged that had it not been for the Independence brought about by Borg Olivier, Malta could not have become a Republic. She emphasised that, despite being a member of the Labour Party, she had always spoken clearly and acknowledged the vital role of Independence in Malta's history.

President Spiteri Debono added that 60 years after Independence, the Maltese people now enjoy broader prospects and opportunities. The country has progressed, particularly in opening opportunities for young people. She attributed this to the trust that Borg Olivier had in the Maltese people's ability to thrive independently, a trust that was key to Malta becoming a sovereign and independent nation.

Other speeches included personal experiences and reflections on Ġorġ Borg Olivier, delivered by Judge Toni Abela, Prof. Tonio Borg and Dr Alexander Borg Olivier, the son of Ġorġ Borg Olivier.

The author, Michael Caruana, was also interviewed during the event by journalist Dione Borg.

In the absence of the leader of the Nationalist Party, Bernard Grech, who was in Berlin attending a meeting with the leaders of the European People's Party, the evening concluded with a speech by deputy leader Alex Perici Calascione. Perici Calascione congratulated the author and highlighted some of Borg Olivier's most admirable qualities, urging those aspiring to political careers to emulate these values.

The event, presented by Mario Xuereb, also featured musical performances by soprano Anita Vella Bondin, accompanied on piano by Dr Romina Morrow.

The book is available from the Nationalist Party Headquarters for a donation of €25.