The National Audit Office (NAO) welcomed George-Marius Hyzler, Member of the European Court of Auditors (ECA), who was accompanied by his delegation: Romuald Kayibanda, Chef de Cabinet, Nikola Soukmandjiev, Cabinet Member, and Annette Farrugia, Attaché.

Hyzler and his team were warmly received by Charles Deguara, Auditor General, Noel Camilleri, Deputy Auditor General and Rebecca Vassallo, Liaison Officer for International Relations. During the meeting, Hyzler provided an overview of the ECA's Annual Audit Reports on the implementation of the EU Budget for 2024, outlining key findings and developments relating to the Court's financial and compliance audit work. 

The exchange also provided an opportunity to reflect on the successful hosting of the EU Contact Committee meeting held in Malta last week. "Particularly noted was the positive feedback received from delegates, who highlighted the engaging discussions on EU competitiveness, the theme of this year's meeting, as well as the seamless organisation and hospitality provided by our Office. The constructive exchanges were seen as contributing to a promising outlook for future audits in this strategically important area," an NAO statement read.

"The visit also served as an opportunity to discuss ongoing collaboration between the ECA and the NAO, as well as preparations for future joint initiatives. In this context, participants exchanged views on the ECA Summer School, organised jointly by the European Court of Auditors and the University of Malta, with the support of the NAO. The Summer School has established itself as a recognised platform that brings together auditors, policymakers, practitioners and academics from across Europe to explore emerging trends in public sector auditing. The visit reaffirmed the strong professional relationship between the ECA and the NAO and underscored their shared commitment to strengthening public sector auditing within the European Union."

Separately, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Anġlu Farrugia, met with the Maltese Member of the European Court of Auditors, George Hyzler, during a courtesy visit at the Parliament building.

During the meeting, Hyzler presented the Speaker with a copy of the European Court of Auditors' Annual Report for the year 2024.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives expressed his appreciation for Dr Hyzler's work within the framework of the European Court of Auditors, which contributes significantly to strengthening governance and transparency within the institutions of the European Union.

He added that the report will be placed on the Table of the House during today's sitting.