President George Abela urged the nation to safeguard the family unit when he inaugurated the Milied Hieni campaign in Valletta this evening.

Speaking in the presence of the prime minister, the leader of the opposition and the archbishop, Dr Abela spoke on the joy of Christmas and said the most important thing was not gifts and revelry but inner peace and joy.

Dwelling on the family, he said the family unit had over the ages been the cornerstone of this country. This, he said, was what shaped people's character and values and the country would do well to safeguard it.

Christmas greetings were also conveyed by Dr Muscat, Dr Busuttil and Mgr Cremona, who also thanked the President, who is nearing the end of his five-year term.

The ceremony was held in the Palace Square against the backdrop of a large image of the nativity scene.