Malta’s prime minister has praised the Queen for her ‘passionate leadership’ of the Commonwealth.
Joseph Muscat was addressing world leaders at the opening ceremony of the CHOGM summit at Buckingham Palace.
He also signalled Malta’s strong support for Prince Charles to take over as the next leader of the Commonwealth when he becomes King.
Maltese Prime Minister @JosephMuscat_JM speaks at the opening of #CHOGM2018 as Malta passes over the chair-in-office of the Commonwealth to the UK.@RoyalFamily pic.twitter.com/Nxi4sH8xw7
— Commonwealth Chair-In-Office (@Commonwealth18) April 19, 2018
Dr Muscat told members of the royal family and other VIPs: ‘It has been quite a journey since we last met in Malta more than two years ago.
‘The world is a different place, things we took for granted are now rooted in deep uncertainty, and while progress continues to be achieved, this is uneven.
‘Despite this, the Commonwealth, our Commonwealth, is experiencing a rekindled interest, with our family growing, and positive changes happening.’
He added: ‘As proud, independent nations, we look at your leadership of our family as a honour you are affording us.
‘What your father King George started, you have not only continued but also elevated to unprecedented levels.
‘We are equally elated by the vigour with which His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales actively participates in Commonwealth affairs, and puts a strong Commonwealth dimension in his various initiatives.
‘We are certain that when he will be called upon to do so, he will provide a solid and passionate leadership for our Commonwealth.’
The flags of the 53 Commonwealth nations are lined up by Flag Bearers from the @ColdstreamGds. #CHOGM2018 pic.twitter.com/beP7K58VMz
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 19, 2018
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