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6 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 13 DECEMBER 2024 NEWS HERITAGE Malta has launched The Republic of Malta: The First Fifty Years, 1974-2024, an exhibition at the Grand Master's Palace in Valletta, commemorating five decades of the nation's journey as a republic. The exhibition runs until March 2025. Hosted in the Palace's re- vamped Uccelliera – formerly the space where Grand Mas- ters kept exotic birds as a sta- tus symbol of their power, and today fittingly a hall dedicat- ed to the Republic of Malta, the exhibition features a rich collection of documents, arti- facts, and multimedia displays exploring Malta's struggle for self- determination – evolving from a people ruled by foreign powers to a res publica, and its achievements as a sovereign state. This milestone exhibition was inaugurated during an official ceremony, featuring distinguished guests including national leaders and Heritage Malta representatives. The exhibition also under- scores the pivotal role of the Presidency in safeguarding de- mocracy and fostering unity. In her speech, President Myr- iam Spiteri Debono defined the Republic as "a symbol of a nation and a people that are endowed with the wisdom our forefathers accumulated over the past centuries". Describing this exhibition as one that pays tribute to the Maltese as a nation, the President accentuated the im- portance of increased civic education so that "a strong ap- preciation of what it means for one's country to be a Republic, belonging to the people, and the people choosing their lead- ers and mapping their way for- ward", is instilled in our youth. Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that the constitutional development of the Republic is integral to the very essence of Malta's identity. Quoting from the Constitu- tion, Abela emphasised that Malta is a democratic republic based on work and the respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of people. He said that the President of the Republic of Malta represents national unity. "Our coun- try has achieved great things when united", the Prime Min- ister remarked, noting the sig- nificant reforms carried out by the Government in recent years, including the process the Head of State is appointed. The Prime Minister further re- marked that fifty years ago, we were still dependent on Brit- ish Government funding in a military base. Today, however, we must take the next step for- ward, making a leap in quality to create the best opportuni- ties possible, particularly for the youth of Malta and Gozo. He concluded his address by stressing the vital importance of safeguarding our identity and acknowledged the signifi- cant work of Heritage Malta in preserving and commemorat- ing the achievements and his- tory of our nation. Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici re- marked how we are commem- orating 50 years since Malta became a Republic, a historic moment where the Maltese people have gained full auton- omy over their destiny. "These fifty years marked a journey of great achievements for the country, built on the vision of strong leadership and the resilience of the Maltese and Gozitans", the Minister re- marked. He also remarked that, "This historic moment was part of a series of key events: Independ- ence, Republic, Freedom, and the European Union. Each of these steps was the result of collective work and sacrifice. While we look at these fifty years with pride, it is our du- ty to continue to build on this heritage to give our children a better future, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has worked to make this journey a success". Mario Cutajar, Chairman of Heritage Malta, emphasised that, "This tiny republic is a work-based one, and work is done by people. This anniver- sary should be a celebration of the Maltese, who over these 50 years have changed our coun- try. This exhibition pays trib- ute to the Maltese of all times who have kept tingling the urge for our country to have its reins in its hands and to dream of the country we have today. It is a tiny taste of another way our story should be told, be- yond princes and other royals". Noel Zammit, Chief Execu- tive Officer of Heritage Malta, remarked, "This exhibition of- fers a profound insight into the resilience and determination of the Maltese people. It serves as a reminder of our shared history and aspirations while honouring the vision and unity that continue to shape our na- tion. We are proud to present this immersive experience that connects citizens to the roots of our democracy and the piv- otal moments that define Mal- ta today." A complementary, bilingual, and lavishly illustrated exhibi- tion catalogue is also available for purchase. Entrance to the exhibition is included in the Grand Master's Palace experi- ence, which is fully accessible for persons with mobility chal- lenges. Landmark exhibition 'The Republic of Malta: The First Fifty Years, 1974-2024' launched From top: President Myriam Spiteri Debono, Prime Minister Robert Abela, and Minister for National Heritage Owen Bonnici