In his Christmas Eve message, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi expressed the importance of the next five years.

Malta will have the presidency of the European Union in 2017.  "This is a very serious responsibility for government and for the people of Malta and Gozo. Next year the people will also be choosing the government that will lead the country for the next five years. Each person will decide what is best for himself, his family and his country," the Premiere said. The debate will centre on how the country can continue to build upon its success and make the right choices for the future.

"In the forthcoming weeks the government will continue negotiating a financial package with the EU, which will be in effect for a period of 7 years from 2014 to 2020. These negotiations will not be easy but the government will do its best to obtain the best conditions for Malta," he added.

The Prime Minister also spoke on the importance of education and how unemployment has been controlled in Malta when compared to other EU countries.

He also emphasized  the importance of the frree healthcare service in malta, saying it is something that we should be proud of. "The people who work in this sector offer the highest level of care and deserve the gratitude of the maltese people".

He wished Malta a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.