Duncan asked Gonzi about the emotions of that historic day, further probing into whether Maltese citizens still share that same fervour.

“This was an extraordinary moment,” Gonzi responded. He described the enthusiasm of the Maltese people “who saw a dream that they worked hard for”, referring to the controversy and campaigning that began years prior. 

“It wasn’t easy. There are people present here who know exactly what I’m saying. But, the decision passed and the enthusiasm and hope that the people had was clear in the results.”

“Today 20 years later we can look at it as a success story – Malta has advanced economically, Maltese students are here in the European Parliament asking questions, and we have the President of the EP who comes from the smallest state in the EU.”

“It was a story of hope and it remains one. We hope that the EU will remain relevant for our people, for youths like you, and that it will bring about peace, stability, and development for everyone.”

During this event, President of the EP Roberta Metsola also recounted the moment Malta became a member of the union, describing a scene of thousands of people counting down the seconds to that fateful day.

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Do you remain hopeful about the EU?