Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi took part in the official ceremony marking Moldova’s assumption of the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, held in Strasbourg. The event was attended by Secretary General Alain Berset and ambassadors from all 46 member states. During the ceremony, Malta’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Christopher Cutajar, handed over the symbolic key and gavel to the Moldovan official — marking the transfer of the mandate, TRIBUNA reports.

Moldova will hold the Chairmanship from 14 November 2025 to 15 May 2026. This is the second time the country has held this role since joining the Council of Europe in 1995 — the first was in 2003.

Minister Popșoi outlined Moldova’s priorities for the term, including:

• Strengthening the European Convention on Human Rights system
• Promoting children’s rights
• Combating violence against women
• Advancing social rights
• Supporting local democracy
• Countering disinformation

A key focus will be continued support for Ukraine, including operationalizing the Special Tribunal and the Complaints Commission.

In his speech, Popșoi emphasized Moldova’s commitment to the Council of Europe’s values and to strengthening democracy and the rule of law:

“We assume the Chairmanship during a time of challenges, and the Council of Europe’s role in defending democracy, human rights, and the rule of law is essential. We’ve learned that democracy is not a destination, but a process that requires constant engagement, courage, and responsibility. Moldova remains a steadfast supporter of the organization’s core values and its mission to promote peace and solidarity across the continent.”

Throughout the mandate, Moldova will host over 30 events, including ministerial sessions and cultural activities in Chișinău and Strasbourg. The Chairmanship will culminate in the Ministerial Session in Chișinău on 14–15 May 2026, with participation from all 46 member state delegations.

Minister Popșoi also expressed gratitude to Malta for its successful leadership over the past six months.