It was a mild, bright, sunny morning as John Aquilina, Malta’s ambassador designate to Cambodia and his wife Ann waited for the motorcade and police escort to arrive to take them to the Royal Palace for the presentation of the Letters of Credence to His Majesty Norodom Sihamoni, the King of Cambodia.

The Throne Room, where the Presentation Ceremony was to take place, was accessed by a high, steep staircase.  A guard of honour with swords drawn, stood on each step, each side of the staircase.

Upon reaching the top of the staircase, a stately looking gentleman standing in front of an elaborate golden throne could be seen at the opposite end of a lengthy room.  The century old Throne Room was lavishly decorated with golden ornaments, gold brocade and resplendent paintings of forest scenes.

After extending the greeting of Her Excellency Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, and formally presenting the Letters of Credence, Ambassador Aquilina introduced his wife Ann.

His Majesty had been well briefed about Malta, displaying a good knowledge and understanding of Malta’s history.  He seemed to know a considerable amount about Malta’s general ambience and economy, and the word “beautiful” was frequently spoken. 

Ambassador Aquilina responded by making relevant remarks about Cambodia’s forests and general topography, as well as enquiring about the Buddhist and Hindu civilisations of ancient Cambodia. His Majesty warmed to the conversation and spoke proudly about his Cambodian heritage.  The meeting ended with the exchange of the usual courtesies.

As Ambassador John and Mrs Ann Aquilina left the Royal Palace, it was a proud moment to see in the Kingdom of Cambodia the Maltese car flag unfurled and fluttering in the midday breeze.