Bethlehem Mayor Maher Nicola Canawati received at the Municipality Hall the Representative of the Republic of Malta to the State of Palestine, Mr. Franklin Aquilina, in the presence of the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Malta to Palestine, Mr. Elias Al-Arja, and Municipal Council Member Mr. Hisham Al-Kamel.
During the meeting, the Mayor praised the strong bilateral relations between the State of Palestine and the Republic of Malta, appreciating the Republic of Malta’s supportive stances for Palestinian rights in international forums. He also expressed his deep gratitude for the international support provided by the Republic of Malta, stressing the importance of its continuation, especially in light of the difficult circumstances facing Palestine, particularly in the Gaza Strip, where the humanitarian catastrophe is worsening due to war, blockade, and famine threatening the lives of thousands. He called for urgent international action.
For his part, Mr. Franklin expressed his appreciation for the city of Bethlehem, noting its historical, religious, and global tourism significance, and the importance of supporting the local economy to ensure sustainable life there. He also affirmed Malta’s commitment to supporting education and cultural exchange, and promoting development across various regions, despite the challenges. He also expressed his country’s solidarity with the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the need to end their humanitarian suffering. Canawati concluded his remarks by emphasizing that Bethlehem, despite the suffering the country is experiencing, will remain a city of hope and peace, calling on people around the world to visit it. He said, “Bethlehem is a safe city and will always remain so. It is a city of hope and peace.”