BERLIN, 12 June 2025 – Malta’s Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe, Ambassador Francesca Camilleri Vettiger, outlined the country’s Presidency priorities during a dedicated briefing at the Europäisches Haus in Berlin. Organised by the Europäische Bewegung Deutschland (EBD), the session served as a platform to reaffirm Malta’s commitment to defending democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights.
The event brought together distinguished speakers and diplomatic representatives, including Malta’s Ambassador to Germany, Ms Marlene Bonnici, who praised the country’s recent contributions on the international stage. Ambassador Bonnici highlighted Malta’s active foreign policy, referencing the country’s recent term at the United Nations Security Council and its Chairpersonship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
A key feature of the session was a panel discussion between Ambassador Camilleri Vettiger and Jan Kantorczyk, Head of the Department for the OSCE and the Council of Europe at the German Federal Foreign Office, moderated by Dr. Christian Johann. Discussions focused on key priorities of Malta’s Presidency, including the protection of children in the digital age, the fight against disinformation, tackling discrimination and gender-based violence, and strengthening youth participation in democratic processes.
Ambassador Camilleri Vettiger also reaffirmed Malta’s firm support for Ukraine, stressing the need for sustained efforts towards a just and lasting peace.
Speaking during the event, Ambassador Bonnici underlined the significance of such high-level dialogues. “Every opportunity counts for Malta to showcase its active role on the international stage,” she said. “As one of the smallest countries in Europe, it is encouraging to see our contributions recognised, especially in multilateral fora such as the Council of Europe, the United Nations, and the OSCE.”
Malta’s Presidency comes at a time of growing geopolitical challenges, providing a platform to promote unity, inclusivity, and the protection of fundamental rights. Through these engagements, Malta continues to demonstrate that a small country can play a meaningful role in strengthening multilateral cooperation and advancing common European values.