VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Prime Minister Robert Abela has outlined Maltàs vision for its presidency of the Council of Europe, placing youth empowerment, peace-building, and people-centred reforms at the heart of its agenda.
Speaking at the Parliamentary Assembly in Strasbourg, Abela said Malta sees young people not just as the future, but as “leaders driving today’s positive change”. He announced that Malta will host the Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth this October, aiming to foster a “youth-led democratic future”.
Maltàs presidency, which runs until November, will include three ministerial meetings. Abela emphasised Maltàs commitment to peace and human rights, highlighting the need for international unity in the face of conflict, particularly in Gaza and Ukraine.
“We cannot remain silent in the face of human tragedy in Gaza”, he said. “Global challenges require global efforts”.
Abela noted Maltàs role as a bridge between the Council’s 46 member states and stressed that no country is too small to contribute to peace and progress. He highlighted national reforms supported by the Council of Europe, including improvements to judicial appointments, anti-corruption measures, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. Notable changes include requiring a two-thirds parliamentary vote to appoint the President of the Republic and restructuring the Office of the Attorney General.
Abela also pointed to initiatives supporting youth, such as the Youth Advisory Forum, voting rights for 16-year-olds, and the nomination of the youngest-ever European Commissioner responsible for youth.
He reaffirmed Maltàs commitment to the values of the Council of Europe-peace, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law-and pledged to keep promoting dialogue and multilateralism on the international stage.
– Photo Department of Information Malta –
(ITALPRESS).
