Malta plans 63 events for important anniversaries in 2014

Malta has lined up a number of events to celebrate this year for multiple national anniversaries, the country's Foundation for National Festivities revealed Wednesday. To celebrate its 50th anniversary of Independence, the 40th anniversary of Republic Day, 35th anniversary of Freedom Day and 10 years of EU membership, Malta invited numbers of local and foreign artists to participate in 63 events and initiatives. These activities includes a concert to be held on 5th April by British guitarist Brian May, better known for his involvement in acclaimed English group Queen. Other planned events include ballet performance, concerts food festival as well as a series of television documentaries. "This year we simply could not overlook the historical coincidence of having four important anniversaries," said Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. "However, more importantly, we must look beyond the feasts and shape our identity as a nation. The best part of these planned events is that they are not retrospective, but they look ahead and celebrate diversity." Muscat said. Malta was granted Independence on September 21st, 1964 after more than 150 years history of being part of the then British Empire. On 13 December 1974, the Maltese constitution was substantially revised, which changed Malta from being a Commonwealth realm into a republic within the Commonwealth. British forces finally retained a presence in Malta until March 31, 1979 when their military bases on the island were closed, and the date is celebrated as Freedom Day. Ten years ago, Malta joined the European Union on May 1, 2004.