The Republic of Moldova officially assumed the chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.
As reported by the press service of the Moldova’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, November 14, the solemn ceremony of handing over the mandate took place today in Strasbourg under the chairmanship of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset. It was attended by ambassadors of all 46 member states of the organization.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of Malta, Christopher Cutajar, symbolically handed over to the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova, Mihai Popsoi, the key and gavel – the traditional attributes of the chairmanship.
Moldova will chair the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe from November 14, 2025 to May 15, 2026. This is the country’s second presidency of the organization since joining the Council of Europe in 1995 (the first took place in 2003).
Speaking at the ceremony, Mihai Popsoi presented the priorities of the Moldovan presidency: strengthening the system of the European Convention on Human Rights; promotion and protection of children’s rights; combating violence against women; strengthening social rights; development of local democracy; countering disinformation.
Moldova intends to pay special attention to ongoing support for Ukraine, including ensuring the work of the Special Tribunal and the Complaints Commission. “We are taking over the presidency at a time of serious challenges. The role of the Council of Europe in defending democracy, human rights and the rule of law is more important than ever. Democracy is not an end point, but a constant process that requires activity, courage and responsibility. The Republic of Moldova remains a strong supporter of the fundamental values of the organization and its mission to strengthen peace and solidarity on the European continent,” emphasized Mihai Popsoi.
During the six months of the presidency, Moldova will hold more than 30 events – from ministerial meetings to cultural events – in Chisinau and Strasbourg. The culmination will be a session of the Committee of Ministers at the level of heads of foreign policy departments, which will be held on May 14-15, 2026 in the capital of Moldova with the participation of delegations from all 46 member states.
In conclusion, the Minister of Foreign Affairs thanked Malta for the successful performance of its chairmanship in May-November 2025 and wished fruitful cooperation to all member countries in the coming period.