STRASBOURG, 3 November – The President of the Republic of Malta, H.E. Myriam Spiteri Debono, together with Council of Europe Deputy Secretary General Bjørn Berge officially inaugurated the Malta Lounge at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg.
In her address to youth delegates from across Europe, President Spiteri Debono highlighted the vital contribution of young people to the future of Europe’s democratic landscape. She described the Malta Lounge as “a place built to nurture shared trust and mutual respect — a starting point for new waves of dialogue and cooperation, where ideas grow into creative solutions.”
Deputy Secretary General Bjørn Berge emphasised the European Youth Centre’s central role as a platform where young people can come together to set priorities, exchange perspectives, and shape solutions for the future. He praised the “remarkable energy and vision” that youth bring to society and commended Malta’s Presidency for its strong focus on youth engagement and empowerment.
Ambassador Francesca Camilleri Vettiger echoed this message, describing the Malta Lounge as a bridge between Malta’s Presidency and the future of the Council of Europe — a space where young leaders’ ideas can transform into tangible progress. She underscored a spirit of inclusiveness, encouraging all visitors to make the space their own.
Following the addresses, the President and the Deputy Secretary General jointly unveiled the Malta Lounge plaque. President Spiteri Debono later met with youth delegates participating in the World Forum for Democracy, including Maltese representatives. Discussions centred on preparations for the upcoming Forum and the crucial role of young people in shaping Europe’s democratic future.
Reflecting the colours and spirit of Malta’s Presidency of the Council of Europe, the new Malta Lounge incorporates the key national symbols featured in the Presidency logo — the warmth of the sun, the vibrancy of the luzzu, and the openness of the Mediterranean Sea — conveying a shared message of dialogue, energy, and connection.