The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Anġlu Farrugia, held a constructive meeting with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, to discuss Malta’s upcoming chairmanship of the prestigious body in 2025.
The meeting, which took place at the House of Representatives in Valletta, focused on the priorities and plans for Malta’s leadership role within the Council of Europe. Speaker Farrugia and Berset reviewed Malta’s vision for the chairmanship and the key areas of focus that will guide the country’s efforts in promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across Europe.
During the discussions, both parties stressed on the importance of strengthening multilateral cooperation and fostering dialogue between member states to address contemporary challenges. With Malta set to take on the responsibility in 2025, the Speaker emphasized the country’s commitment to advancing the core values of the Council of Europe, particularly in the areas of social inclusion, migration, and cybersecurity.
Alain Berset expressed his confidence in Malta’s ability to lead effectively, noting the country’s longstanding commitment to European values and its strong democratic tradition. The Secretary General also commended Malta’s strategic vision for its chairmanship, which aligns with the Council’s mission to ensure the protection of fundamental rights for all citizens across Europe.
Both leaders agreed that the 2025 chairmanship would provide an excellent opportunity for Malta to strengthen its diplomatic ties within the European context, while actively contributing to shaping the future of the Council of Europe.
The meeting concluded with both Speaker Farrugia and Berset affirming their shared commitment to fostering greater collaboration within the Council, ensuring that Malta’s chairmanship is a milestone in furthering the goals of peace, democracy, and human rights in Europe.
Present for the meeting included Naomi Cachia, Head of Delegation PACE, Beppe Fenech Adami, Michael Farrugia, members PACE delegation, Chris Said, Francesca Camilleri Vettiger, Malta’s Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe and Stefano Piedimonte Bodini, Director of the Private Office of the Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General.
Photo: SPK
