On 21 May 2008, H.E. Dr. Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister of Malta, the Hon. Charles Mangion, Acting leader of the Malta Labour Party, the Hon. Dr. Louis Galea, Speaker of the House of Representatives and H.E. Dr. Tonio Borg, Deputy PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs visited the Embassy of China to mourn the victims of the devastating 8.0-magnitude earthquake that hit southwest China's Sichuan Province on May 12. They signed the book of condolences and conveyed sympathy and solidarity with the Chinese Government and people. While speaking highly of the efficiency in rescue and relief effort by the Chinese Government after the quakes and the solidarity manifested by the Chinese people, they expressed firm belief that with the strong leadership of the Chinese Government, Chinese people will eventually win the battle against the disaster and rebuild homes, and that the Beijing Olympic Games would be held successfully.

Dr. Lawrence Gonzi conveyed sympathy to Ambassador Chai Xi

Condolences were also paid on National Mourning Days by the Hon. Dr. Michael Falzon, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, the Hon. Leo Brincat, Shadow Foreign Minister, representatives of the diplomatic missions, dignitaries and guests from all walks of society.