Speaker of the House of Representatives Carmelo Abela has received his first courtesy visits from diplomatic representatives since assuming office, reaffirming Parliament’s role as “a bridge for dialogue, mutual respect and parliamentary diplomacy.”
The meetings were held with the Apostolic Nuncio to the Holy See and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Mons. Wojciech Załuski, Japanese Ambassador Ono Hikariko, Ghana’s High Commissioner Regina Appiah-Sam, and Namibia’s High Commissioner Veiccoh K. Nghiwete. These were the first official courtesy visits to the Speaker since his election on 20 June 2026.
During his meeting with Mons. Załuski, Speaker Abela highlighted the long-standing relationship between Malta and the Holy See, describing it as one built on centuries of Catholic heritage, shared values and diplomatic cooperation. He said that, amid global conflicts, migration and environmental challenges, the relationship serves as a reminder that politics and diplomacy should always begin with “human dignity, peace and the common good.”
In separate meetings, the Speaker discussed strengthening bilateral ties with Japan in areas including innovation, education, trade, technology and tourism, while also proposing the reactivation of the Malta-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Group. He also praised Ghana’s democratic stability and explored opportunities for cooperation in trade, education, healthcare, maritime services and culture. Discussions with Namibia focused on expanding collaboration in renewable energy, green hydrogen, agriculture, fisheries, vocational training and sustainable development.
The Speaker also welcomed Chinese Ambassador Zhang, who delivered a congratulatory message from Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China. The meeting also focused on strengthening parliamentary cooperation and the broader bilateral relationship between Malta and China.
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