The President of Malta, George Vella, held talks with the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, at Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence and office of the President of Ireland, at the beginning of a three-day State Visit to Ireland.
During the bilateral meeting, President Vella and President Higgins discussed, among others, the excellent bilateral relations between the two countries and areas for future cooperation. They also highlighted Malta’s priorities in the United Nations Security Council, neutrality, climate change, and the latest developments in the war in Ukraine, the Mediterranean, Africa, migration, as well as food security.
Following the meeting with President Higgins, the President of Malta planted an Irish Oak tree on the grounds of Áras an Uachtaráin and, together with Mrs Vella, rang the Peace Bell, symbolising peace and reconciliation. Later he laid a wreath at the Garden of Remembrance at Parnell Square dedicated to the memory of those who gave their lives in the cause of Irish freedom.
In Dublin, President Vella had a separate meeting with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar.
The discussion between President Vella and Prime Minister Varadkar also focused on similarities between the two countries, climate change, Africa, and war and peace in Ukraine. Afterwards, he visited the Assembly and Senate.
The President of Malta is accompanied by the Minister for Inclusion, Voluntary Organisations and Consumer Rights, Julia Farrugia Portelli.
