Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545722
UNDER the leadership of Presi- dent Donald J. Trump, on 4 July 2026, the United States com- memorated the 250 anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Freedom 250 is a time for Americans worldwide to reflect on their love for American his- tory and ignite a spirit of ad- venture and innovation to keep our nation excelling. It is also a time to reflect on the ideals of 13 small colonies that shaped the world—"government of the peo- ple, by the people, for the peo- ple"—and the role American di- plomacy has played in advancing freedom, prosperity, and inno- vation around the world. (Pres- ident Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States). Our nation's bilateral rela- tionship with Malta is rooted in a long history of friendship and cooperation, dating back to America's fight for independ- ence. During the Revolutionary War, nearly 2,000 brave Maltese soldiers and Knights of Malta fought alongside resolute Amer- ican patriots. Maltese ports pro- vided safe harbour and supplies to American ships, aiding our nascent nation's fight for free- dom. During World War II, Ameri- cans and Maltese together sac- rificed, ultimately prevailing, to protect American and Mal- tese freedoms on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Today, the partnership between the Unit- ed States and Malta continues to thrive, grounded in robust security cooperation and a mu- tual commitment to advancing innovation and prosperity in the Mediterranean region and be- yond. One of the most significant recent milestones in our part- nership was Malta's joining the Registry Information Sharing Compact (RISC), a vital system for strengthening maritime se- curity and countering sanctions evasion. Malta is the EU's largest flag registry; its membership makes RISC even more comprehensive and effective. At a time when we daily witness the exploitation of the commercial maritime sector by countries, organised crime syndicates, armed robbers and hijackers, and confront the risks introduced by this destabilising behaviour, RISC is more impor- tant than ever. The United States values Mal- ta's bold leadership in maritime security. Our security coopera- tion extends well beyond naviga- tion and shipping concerns. The United States and Malta con- tinue to work closely together to defend both our physical and digital borders; law enforcement cooperation has evolved to de- liver multifaceted training initia- tives to combat financial crimes and transnational cyber fraud, including devastating fraudulent wire and telephone communica- tions and social engineering. Innovation is another corner- stone of our partnership. Malta's signing of the Artemis Accords in May aligned the country with a growing coalition committed to the peaceful and responsible use of outer space. Moreover, US-funded professional and ed- ucational exchange programmes continue to build lasting con- nections between our countries. Malta is home to more than 300 International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) alumni and Ful- bright partnerships are creating new opportunities for academic collaboration. Our economic relationship is also 'flying'. The launch of di- rect flights between New York and Malta creates new oppor- tunities for premium tourism, trade, and investment. Business leaders on both sides of the At- lantic exclaim: Malta is open for business. To advance the opportuni- ties presented by these devel- opments, I recently met with approximately 100 Maltese business leaders to promote in- vestment in the United States and strengthen bilateral com- mercial ties. I was also proud to witness the Maltese Gov- ernment's visionary landmark partnership with Microsoft and OpenAI, well demonstrating the decisive role of American inno- vation in advancing economic growth and opportunity through secure, reliable technologies. As we celebrate Freedom 250, we do so not only by reflecting on our history, but also by in- vesting in our future. America is led by a great patriot; Presi- dent Donald J. Trump's defining leadership is advancing a re- sults-driven approach to diplo- macy that strengthens security, expands economic opportuni- ty, promotes innovation, and builds partnerships that benefit both Americans and our friends around the world. In President Donald J. Trump's own words: "The Story of America, makes everyone free." This story has al- ways been shaped by resilience, innovation, and optimism. We reaffirm our commitment to the principles that have guided us since 1776, as well as to our enduring friendship with Mal- ta that will help define the next chapter of our shared future. May the holy trinity continue to bless and watch over President Donald J. Trump and our allies. May we, regardless of country of origin, rededicate ourselves to the enduring principles of One Nation Under God. 6 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 5 JULY 2026 OPINION Somers Farkas 250 years of American independence and a deep US–Malta partnership US Ambassador to Malta This story has always been shaped by resilience, innovation, and optimism US Embassy's Independence Day reception