Choral Bridges – 60 years diplomatic relations between Malta and Germany

This year, we commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malta and Germany. In the spirit of this milestone and in the lead to Malta’s Republic Day, the Embassy of Malta in Berlin hosted Choral Bridges, a title chosen to symbolise the enduring relationship and cultural connectivity between the two countries. Under the patronage of the Ambassador of Malta to Germany, H.E. Marlene Bonnici, the event highlighted Malta’s commitment to fostering cultural diplomacy at the highest level. To mark the occasion, we invited the artistic director and eight chorists from KorMalta, the National Choir of Malta, under the umbrella of NAPA (National Agency for the Performing Arts) to perform in Berlin. This concert marked KorMalta’s first participation in Germany, bringing Maltese artistry to the heart of the German capital, offering a cultural experience for German authorities, the diplomatic community, Maltese citizens living in Germany, and friend of Malta. Held on the 25November at the historic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, the concert welcomed over 400 guests and stood as a cultural highlight. The venue, which was partially destroyed during the Second World War and preserved as a memorial for peace, added symbolic significance, highlighting the values of reconciliation and dialogue that continue to guide our bilateral relationship. KorMalta offered a programme that bridged a harmonised blend of Maltese and German musical heritage, opening with pieces rooted in Malta’s cultural identity and honouring German Romanticism through Brunker and Rheinberger. With Christmas approaching, the choir enchanted the audience with seasonal favourites, including the Maltese lullaby Ninni la Tibkix and the universally cherished Silent Night. Following the concert, a networking reception brought the guests together to celebrate the long-standing friendship between Malta and Germany. This concert was financed by the Cultural Diplomacy Fund 2025 as part of the objectives of the Government of Malta, and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Tourism. Malta’s cultural diplomacy aims to promote international exchange, showcase the country’s artistic excellence worldwide, and strengthen dialogue between cultures through the universal language of music. With initiatives such as Choral Bridges, Malta reaffirms its commitment to building lasting partnerships that go beyond politics and economics, creating spaces for shared experience and mutual understanding.