With the raising of the Maltese flag in Place de la République, in the heart Strasbourg, on Wednesday Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg marked the beginning of the 2025 Maltese Presidency of the Council of Europe.
The symbolic ceremony officially commenced the six-month political and cultural programme of the fourth Maltese Presidency of the Council of Europe since it joined this Organisation six decades ago.
"Today's flag-raising ceremony marks a new chapter and a solemn pledge to defend the values that unite us, to champion the rights and dignity of all people, and to uphold the mission of this great institution in word and deed," the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism stated.
"At a time when war continues to inflict suffering on our continent, the Council of Europe must remain a beacon of justice, accountability, and democratic resilience. Through this Presidency we will continue to reinforce and promote our conviction that principled, cooperative diplomacy is the only path to lasting peace and progress," Ian Borg said.
Earlier in the day, in his capacity as President of the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers, he also opened the first meeting of the Committee of Ministers' Deputies under the Maltese Presidency. He presented Malta's programme and priorities, inviting the other 45 member states to support the planned initiatives.
Since taking over from Luxembourg on 14th May, Malta has already held several meetings in Valletta, including the 12th European IDAHOT+ Forum and the third session of ADI-SOGIESC in Malta, whose deliberations will inform a new recommendation on the rights of intersex persons. A few days ago, Malta also welcomed the Standing Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.
This week, the Maltese Islands are also hosting the 4th European Youth Work Convention, bringing together around 500 participants to shape the future of youth work in Europe.
The first official appointment of the Presidency in Strasbourg, held in collaboration with Ukraine, was the launch of 'Ukraine is not Silent: Chronicles of Fighting Against War-Related Sexual Violence'. "This publication is a timely reminder of the urgent need for justice and accountability for the atrocities perpetrated by the Russian Federation. Malta will continue to stand firmly in solidarity with the people of Ukraine," Ian Borg affirmed.
On Wednesday evening, the Permanent Representation of Malta to the Council of Europe will also raise the curtain on the Presidency's cultural programme, with an evening of Maltese music, theatre and poetry at the Palais Universitaire.
The May-November 2025 Maltese Presidency of the Council of Europe, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of Malta's membership in this organisation, is prioritising the protection of children, combatting violence and discrimination, empowering youth and safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.