The Embassy of France in Malta organised this year's French National Day ceremony at the Résidence of France on Tuesday 15 July. It was attended by the President of the Republic of Malta, H. E. Mrs Myriam Spiteri Debono, and the Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Dr Owen Bonnici. Thanks to the Minister, the Triton Fountain was illuminated in the colours of the French Republic the day before as a sign of friendship towards the French nation. This initiative by the Maltese authorities delighted the French and Maltese communities and tourists on the island.
During her speech, the Ambassador to France, Madame Sandrine Lelong-Motta, praised the the mutual trust in bilateral relations between Malta and France, particularly in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, the OSCE and the Council of Europe. H.E. presented France's position on the need for ceasefires in Gaza and Ukraine and reminded that Malta and France share a common Mediterranean identity. She pointed out that France's presence in Malta, through leading companies such as CMA-CGM, ST Microelectronics and FDJ United, is thriving. French workers and tourists contribute to the growth of the Maltese economy. She announced the opening of the Lycée français bilingue international starting in September 2025 which will offer a bilingual curriculum (pre-primary and prmary levels) and is expected to become a cornerstone of France's cultural presence in Malta. She finally had special words for the teachers who keep the French language alive on the island and for the French community gathered at the Residence of France.
The President of Malta H. E. Myriam Spiteri Debono paid tribute to the « enduring friendship that exists between the French and Maltese nations, a friendship strongly grounded in mutual respect and a common vision of peace and prosperity. These shared values serve as a strong foundation for a dynamic and driving economic relationship which continue to bring tangible benefits for both Malta and France ». In her speech, she defended the importance of multilateralism and expressed her support for the Franco-Mexican proposal to suspend the right of veto in the United Nations Security Council in cases of mass atrocities. She concluded that « the French national motto Liberté Egalité Fratenité remains profoundly relevant. I venture to add that the spirit of Liberté, Egalité and Fraternité, should be seriously taken on board again globally so that the application of these universal values may lead to human dignity, social justice and peaceful co-existence among peoples ».
The Embassy of France was happy to offer the public the opportunity to listen to the French and Maltese national anthems performed by Maltese soprano Christine Dalli. Later on, the Franco-Maltese singer Chantal Catania delighted those present with a refined half-hour performance of timeless French chansons by artists such as Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour and Dalida. Her first song was 'La Vie en Rose', just like Lady Gaga at the opening ceremony of the Paris Games last year. Her last song was 'L'Hymne à l'Amour,' a nod to Céline Dion's performance at the Eiffel Tower during the closing ceremony of the Games.
Distinguished guests and members of the French community in Malta were treated to a variety of French specialities provided by the Embassy's suppliers and sponsors. There was French cheese, divine croquettes and excellent homemade canelés, a pastry originating from Bordeaux, prepared by the chef of the Résidence of France. The Jurade de Saint-Emilion and its representative Michael Tabone, as well as Domaines du Clos du Bel Air and its representative M. Denis Chazarain, treated guests to their exquisite wines from the Bordeaux region. Amorino also offered delicious ice cream.
The Residence of France's garden, illuminated by pretty fairy lights, is beginning to take on a new look thanks to ongoing works. The audience was also treated to French music throughout the evening, including the soundtrack from the film Amélie Poulain and songs by French current successful singers Clara Luciani and Pierre Garnier.
This delightful evening was a tribute to the Franco-Maltese relationship, to French popular music and culinary specialties.
Editorial note
Palazzo Manduca is a beautiful reflection of traditional Maltese design, enriched with a touch of aristocratic elegance. The residence is adorned with classic walled gardens that evoke the noble charm of country homes from centuries past. These high walls serve not only to shield the verdant oasis from the strong coastal winds but also to create a tranquil, enclosed sanctuary. Meandering flagstone paths wind gracefully through the landscape, lending a rustic and timeless ambiance to the gardens. An intricate stone irrigation system, still functioning today, reveals the enduring craftsmanship of traditional agricultural methods. The garden's lushness is punctuated by flourishing citrus and olive trees - orange trees once presented as gifts to European courts, and olive trees bearing deep symbolic ties to Żebbuġ, whose very name means "olive."
The building itself stands as an architectural gem, embodying the grandeur of 18th-century Maltese baroque style. With its honey-toned limestone walls, elegant arched doorways, and intricately designed balconies, Palazzo Manduca is a poetic expression of history, nature, and nobility intertwined.