Newly-appointed President George Vella said he never imagined himself as President, but insisted he was committed to see the country move forward once he decided to assume the role.

Surrounded by Cabinet members at the Presidential Palace in Valletta, President Vella recalled memories of working with his former colleagues.

"We had our disputes, but that is normal in politics... My friends are now people who legislate and write the laws of this country," he said. 

During a courtesy call, he said he looked forward to be a "moral compass" and that he would not hesitate to express himself where he disagreed with others. 

He also made calls for a fair and equal distribution of wealth, saying there were people who were "not comfortable", despite the economic progress.

“I will endeavour to be a reference point and to act as moral compass, and will be pointing out anything I think I should give my views upon,” President Vella said.

Women also needed more rights to be on par with rights men, he said. 

Despite conceding he set himself an "ambitious programme", President Vella said he was happy to aim high. 

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said he had no doubts the new President would continue to steer the country in the right direction. 

President Vella's speech had touched and inspired everyone, Dr Muscat said. 

Read: President Vella delivers unifying address after swearing-in