Over 50 delegations in Chișinău as Moldova ends Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe chairmanship
Over 50 delegations, including foreign ministers, are expected to gather in Chisinau on May 14-15 for the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe (CoE) ministerial session. This event will also mark the conclusion of the Republic of Moldova's presidency of the organization.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi stated that it is “an honor and a great responsibility” for the Republic of Moldova to lead the Council of Europe for six months. This marks the country's second term in this role since joining the organization 23 years ago.
“The Council of Europe is one of the most important European platforms for defending democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights. It is an honor and a great responsibility for our country to lead this organization for six months,” said Mihai Popșoi in a message detailing the agenda for the upcoming May ministerial session.
The agenda will prioritize issues that the Republic of Moldova committed to addressing upon taking over the mandate. These include continued support for Ukraine, combating disinformation and foreign interference, enhancing security, and strengthening democratic resilience among member states.
At the conclusion of the event, the rotating presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe will be transferred to the Principality of Monaco.
The Republic of Moldova assumed the chairmanship of the organization on September 14 in Strasbourg. During the meeting of the Standing Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, which took place in Chisinau on November 21, the authorities reaffirmed their support for Ukraine and emphasized the need to hold the Russian Federation accountable for its crimes.
The Parliament Speaker, Igor Grosu, noted that Moldova took over the chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe during a significant year, marking 30 years since it joined the organization. This period is particularly crucial for Moldova's European path. He stated that with the onset of the war in Ukraine, Moldova has recognized, more than ever, the risks associated with a fragile democracy and institutions that struggle to protect their citizens.
Fighting disinformation and foreign interference has been a priority during Moldova’s mandate as Chair of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. Chisinau has also emphasized the importance of enhancing mechanisms to combat violence against women and protect children's rights.
