I was in Zakarpattia Oblast, Ukraine, last week - a country ravaged by war. 

The Ukrainians have witnessed, and still do, the horrors of war. It has been three years since Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine. Three years of unspeakable hardships for the Ukrainians. Their homes have been destroyed, livelihoods ruined, dreams shattered, future put on hold, and they have witnessed the death of their loved ones.

And yet, the resilience of the Ukrainian people is extraordinary. They stand tall in the face of fierce adversity.

When the brutal invasion of Ukraine, in February of 2022, shocked the world, many had predicted that within a few months of the Russian aggression, the Ukrainians would give in and succumb to the might of Moscow.

Russia is well armed, and its resources are vast. However, those who made these predictions were not familiar with the resilient character of the Ukrainians. The aggressor failed in his effort to subjugate Ukraine. And he will fail again.

Last week's visit to Ukraine was my second visit to the besieged country in the last two years, after the visit I had in Kyiv. This time, I was in Ukraine to address the Ukraine Cultural Conference, themed: Culture as a Component of National Security: Joint Steps for the Protection and Preservation of Cultural Heritage in Ukraine.

Readers might wonder whether culture is what the Ukrainians have in mind in these times of upheaval. Truth is that since the war broke out, the Ukrainians defended life, limb, and culture.

Culture and the cultural sovereignty of Ukraine kept the Ukrainians together. Ukraine's culture is as strong as its weapons.

The aggressor's attempt to erase Ukraine's cultural identity-through physical destruction of cultural landmarks, suppression of traditions, and other forms of cultural assault-is a challenge that demands our collective attention. But the aggressor has so far failed, and I am certain that he will fail completely.

When in my intervention at the Ukraine conference, I said that resilience and cultural identity are key pillars of both national and regional stability, there was a nod of approval from the Ukrainians in the room, which was a combination of Ukrainians, politicians from across Europe and beyond, artists and creators.

Cultural identity is a motivating factor of the peoples' heroic resilience. It happens worldwide when a nation is under siege by foreign aggressors. Malta is a witness to this. Since time immemorial, the Maltese stood tall and denied foreign aggressors from wiping out our country's unique identity. It happened on a large scale during the Second World War. The Maltese were recognised for their bravery. 

Today, it is the Ukrainians who are showing the world the true meaning of bravery and love of country, its culture, and its identity. 

This conference highlighted the key role culture plays in strengthening resilience, fostering regional development, and enhancing social cohesion, not just in Ukraine but across Europe as a whole. 

It is an undeniable fact that amidst ongoing challenges, culture remains a powerful force that unites people, reinforces community values, and empowers individuals to maintain a sense of identity and belonging. 

However, this is not just an issue for Ukraine - although it is understandably a big issue for this country but also for the entire global democratic community. When one's culture is undermined, the broader democratic values that we cherish are at risk. 

I told my audience that Malta believes that culture is far more than a symbol of heritage-it is a tool for resistance and resilience. It provides the foundation for Ukraine's ongoing struggle for sovereignty and self-determination. 

By preserving and promoting its cultural heritage, Ukraine strengthens its resilience and maintains a connection to its past while building a future rooted in unity and purpose. 

There was one point that I emphasized, especially on: The need to remain steadfast in our commitment to support Ukraine and its people. 

In no uncertain terms, I stated that this effort cannot be carried out in isolation. History will judge harshly those who turn their back on the Ukrainian cause for freedom. 

To ensure that Ukraine's cultural sector continues to thrive and contribute to regional development and social cohesion, it is essential to consolidate efforts and forge sustained cooperation with international partners. This is where we, as global allies, have a critical role to play. Whether through sharing resources, expertise, or platforms for cultural exchange, our collective support is crucial to the preservation of Ukraine's cultural assets and its broader societal progress.

That is why Malta believes that by fostering partnerships that prioritize culture, we not only empower Ukraine, but we also contribute to a stronger, more unified Europe. Malta will never walk away from supporting Ukraine and its people when their freedom and cultural identity are on the line. 

Regional development flourishes when diverse cultures interact, exchange ideas, and grow together. The preservation and promotion of culture create a sense of belonging and social cohesion, allowing people to transcend divisions and collaborate for common goals. 

Culture is the bedrock upon which we build resilience, foster connections, and safeguard the values of democracy. Our collective efforts in supporting Ukraine's cultural sector are an investment in a more resilient and cohesive Europe. 

Together, we can ensure that Ukraine's rich cultural identity not only survives but thrives in the face of adversity. We must. This is our task.

Slava Ukraini!