New US ambassador stresses her faith and priorities in first comments in role

New US Ambassador Somers Farkas has stressed her "deep faith" and said it is an honour to represent "our great president" Donald Trump in her first statement in the role.

Farkas, a former model, philanthropist and marketing executive, set out her priorities after presenting her credentials on Wednesday.

"With our outstanding U.S. Embassy team, we will continue to strengthen our alliance by showcasing American and Maltese excellence, fostering economic opportunities, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations," she said in a statement released by the US embassy on Wednesday. 

She was nominated by President Donald Trump and approved by the US Senate just before the summer.

Ambassador Farkas is a Virginia-born philanthropist, entrepreneur and marketing executive. Photo: US Embassy

Farkas presented her credentials to the President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono and expressed her enthusiasm for deepening the partnership between the US and Malta. 

Earlier this week, she was welcomed to Malta by Foreign Minister Ian Borg. 

As US Ambassador, she plans to focus on deepening cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including expanding trade and investment, enhancing security and law enforcement collaboration, and ensuring the safety and welfare of US citizens in Malta, the statement read.

She said the Maltese and American ties date back centuries, and pointed to how the Maltese people and the Knights of the Order of St John played "a notable role" in America's fight for independence.

Fakars also visited St Paul's Grotto in Rabat beneath the basilica. Photo: US Embassy

"America was the first country to recognise Malta’s independence," she added. "We are proud of our centuries-long friendship and shared democratic values." 

On a more personal note, she acknowledged her deep faith and said she was eager for the opportunity to hear mass with the Maltese Catholic community.

In a Facebook post, the U.S Embassy in Malta provided details of her first day in Malta. The Embassy said she visited the Basilica of St Paul in Rabat, and later she was welcomed to her residence and the Embassy itself in Attard. 

Farkas served on Trump’s President’s Commission on White House Fellowships, where she supported charitable efforts for a variety of organisations including the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Alzheimer’s Association, Lighthouse Guild and the New York Women’s Foundation.