Malta’s Venezuelan Community: United in Tragedy
Quakes in Venezuela: A Maltese Connection
Malta-based Venezuelan expat, Maria Rodriguez, watches the news with a heavy heart. She’s not just witnessing the devastation from afar; she’s seeing her hometown, La Guaira, reduced to rubble. The death toll has risen to 920, with tens of thousands missing. Maria’s story is one of many threads connecting Malta to the unfolding tragedy in Venezuela.
Malta’s Venezuelan Community in Shock
Malta’s Venezuelan community, numbering around 500, is in shock. They’re glued to their screens, watching as their homeland grapples with the aftermath of the 7.3 magnitude earthquake. The quake, the strongest to hit Venezuela in a century, has left entire towns in ruins. “It’s like a bad dream,” says Maria, her voice trembling. “I left La Guaira for a better life, but now I fear there’s nothing left to return to.”
Malta’s Venezuelan community has been rallying, setting up collection points at the Venezuelan Embassy in Ta’ Xbiex and the Venezuelan Cultural Centre in Msida. They’re collecting donations of food, water, and medical supplies. “We’re doing what we can from here,” says Luis, a volunteer at the Ta’ Xbiex collection point. “It’s not much, but it’s something.”
Malta’s Response: More Than Words
Malta’s government has been quick to offer condolences and support. Foreign Affairs Minister Evarist Bartolo has expressed his sympathies and assured the Venezuelan community in Malta of the government’s solidarity. But words aren’t enough, says opposition MP Jason Azzopardi. “We need to see concrete action. We need to see Malta sending aid, sending help.”
The Maltese Red Cross has been working tirelessly, coordinating with its Venezuelan counterpart to ensure aid reaches those who need it most. They’ve set up a donation page, urging Maltese residents to contribute. “Every euro counts,” says Red Cross spokesperson, Rebecca Dimech. “We’re working around the clock to ensure no one is left behind.”
Meanwhile, the Maltese public has been rallying behind the Venezuelan community. Social media is filled with messages of support and solidarity. “We’re thinking of you,” writes one Maltese resident on a Venezuelan community Facebook page. “We’re here for you, in any way we can.”
