At the beginning of August, 2007 Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, the Hon. Prime Minister of Malta and his wife Catherine Gonzi visited Melbourne.
On Friday 3rd August, Dr. Gonzi and the Maltese delegation visited Victoria University, Flinders Street Campus. Among the delegation was the Hon. Francis Tabone, the High Commissioner of Malta in Canberra, his wife Mrs. Anne Tabone, the Maltese-Consul General, Mrs. Angele Azzopardi and her husband, Mr. Tony Azzopardi.

Prof. Richard Carter, Acting Vice Chancellor of Victoria University and other academic staff of Victoria University, including Dr. Victoria Borg welcomed the Maltese delegation. Dr. Gonzi delivered a lecture entitled “Malta in a globalised world”. This lecture generated a great deal of interest among the audience. This was followed by a reception during which members of the community had the opportunity to catch up with Dr. Gonzi, Mrs. Gonzi and other members of the delegation.

One of the functions that were held on Saturday in honour of Dr. Gonzi was a dinner dance that was hosted by the Maltese-Australian Business and Professional Association of Victoria in conjunction with the Maltese Council of Victoria. This function was held at Le Mirage. Over 400guests attended this function.

On Sunday, Dr. Gonzi and the Maltese delegation had the opportunity to meet members of the Maltese community at the Klabb Għannejja Maltin in St. Albans over lunch. They were entertained by the Maltese Brass Band as well as traditional guitar music.

Wherever he went, Dr. Gonzi received a very warm welcome by members of the Maltese community. The hospitality in conjunction with the Prime Minister’s and his wife’s cordiality generated a dynamic sense of deep connection that will be cherished for many years to come.