Malta looks forward to assuming the Presidency of the Council of Europe from May to November, "which will coincide with the 60th anniversary of our accession to the organisation," Prime Minister Robert Abela has said.

He spoke while exchanging New Year greetings with members of the Diplomatic Corps.

"Malta's priorities will reflect our ongoing advocacy for the protection of children, accountability for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, youth, and the safeguarding of democracy and the rule of law. "

This year, Malta will also continue to engage actively in the International Maritime Organisation, as a Category C member of the IMO Council, "and we will continue our campaign for re-election to this prestigious body," he said.

Abela, addressing those present, said that "profound challenges" continue to test the resilience of the international community, mentioning ongoing conflicts including the continued war in Ukraine, the situation in Gaza, and the threat of instability in the Middle East. 

"This has been accompanied by an unprecedented wave of geopolitical challenges which if left unchecked, will continue to pose enormous risks. Global challenges threaten to spiral out of our collective control, and the erosion of international norms has contributed to a decline in trust and cooperation among nations, making it more difficult to effectively address them."

"But I am encouraged by the fact that Malta, together with many partners around the world, has not wavered in the commitment to work towards an effective international system, which must foster dialogue, champion global cooperation, advocate for peace, and uphold the rule of law, including international law.  We have demonstrated this commitment through our efforts on both the United Nations Security Council and at the OSCE."

He said that in the EU context, "we have worked with our European peers to advocate for international humanitarian law, and the promotion of human dignity around the world. In Ukraine, we have called for a comprehensive and just resolution to the war, grounded in the principles of the UN Charter and respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, within its internationally recognised borders.  We have not relied on words alone: we have provided financial contributions and in-kind assistance, supporting medical facilities, de-mining initiatives, and education reintegration programs."

Regarding the conflict in Gaza, he said that Malta has been clear on the need for an immediate permanent ceasefire and for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. 

He also said that Malta is deeply concerned about the potential for additional instability in the wider Middle East. 

"While recent events in Syria have provoked hope of a better future for the Syrian people, we must ensure that Syria is not fragmented between the parties of this conflict.  The political process in Syria should be Syrian-led, and Syrian-owned.  Malta will continue to use all the means at its disposal, working with our international partners, to emphasise the need for immediate, unhindered, and unimpeded humanitarian access in and to conflict zones worldwide. "

He also spoke of Malta being elected to chair the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group for the coming two years. "This will provide us with the opportunity to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to democracy, human rights, and shared prosperity. And looking further ahead, we are preparing our bid for membership of the Human Rights Council from 2032 to 2034 and for a further UNSC term from 2043."