The Honourable Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms, Ms Rebecca Buttigieg, and the Permanent Representative of Malta to the Council of Europe hosted a National Day Reception in commemoration of the 59th Anniversary from Malta’s Independence. Around 150 dignitaries and Representatives of the Council of Europe, its organs, member states and observer states, and the European Court of Human Rights attended this event.

The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Her Excellency Marija Pejčinović Burić, delivered an opening speech where she recalled Malta’s efforts and commitment over the past years and the great strides made in upholding human rights, democracy and the rule of law, in particular in advancing civil liberties and gender equality. She commended the gender mainstreaming strategy launched last year, the gender quota mechanism introduced in Parliament as well as the strong and comprehensive protection of LGBTI rights and said that Malta sets an example to other Member States with these and other best practices which serve as an inspiration for others to follow.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality, Ms Rebecca Buttigieg, stated that “Malta shares the same values as the Council of Europe, including democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. Malta will continue to work hand in hand with the Council’s organs to further strengthen these principles.” In this respect, she outlined that Malta’s Presidency will place core issues of the Organisation at the forefront and address challenges facing us all and promote the rights of vulnerable groups as well as equality and equity. She also announced that Malta will be hosting the IDAHOT+ Forum in 2025, and reflected on the recent EuroPride celebrations of diversity, love and inclusivity held in Malta.

Ambassador Camilleri Vettiger reiterated that “Malta remains steadfast in continuing to play an active role in the Council of Europe”, referring also to its active role in chairing the European Centre for Global Interdependence and Solidarity (better known as the North-South Centre) which focuses on promoting dialogue and fostering greater cooperation and solidarity between the North and the South including through increased engagement with the southern neighbourhood, which Malta’s strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean makes it well-suited to lead.”  She also shared that preparations for the Presidency are intensifying and that 2025 will be a joint celebration for Malta as in that same year, in addition to holding the Presidency, Malta will celebrate its 60th anniversary as a proud member of this “common European home”. Ambassador Camilleri Vettiger also expressed continued solidarity with the brave people of Ukraine as the unprovoked and illegal war of aggression reached the 589th day.

For the first time, under the coordination and leadership of the Ambassador, the National Day Reception included an expose of Maltese Cuisine, showcasing the talent of Maltese Chef Miguel Farrugia from the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) who also pursued studies in Lyon.  The National Day Reception was well-attended and warmly welcomed by the High-Officials, Representatives, Diplomats and Council of Europe staff in attendance; of whom, the Secretary General of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Dr Despina Chatzivassiliou-Tsovili, the Special Representative of Migration and Refugees, Ms Leyla Kayacik, and CEPEJ President, Mr Justice Francesco Despaquale.