Moldovan foreign minister attends session of Committee of Ministers of Council of Europe

Chisinau, 19 May /MOLDPRES/- The Delegation of the Republic of Moldova, led by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, Andrei Galbur, attended the Session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, held on 19 May 2017, in Nicosia, Cyprus.

In his statement, Minister Andrei Galbur positively appreciated the Council of Europe's contribution to the Republic of Moldova's modernization and reform efforts. He also stressed the need for confidence building measures and a continued focus on human rights observance when dealing with current „frozen conflicts”, including the Transnistrian conflict. The important role played by the Council of Europe to improve the plight of Latin-Script Schools in the Transnistrian region of the Republic of Moldova was particularly highlighted in this context.

The Minister Galbur welcomed the Council of Europe and European Union Partnership for Good Governance for Easter Partnership countries. While speaking of challenges faced by the Organization and the European countries, he underlined the importance of common responsibility and shared values in ensuring further the democratic security in Europe.

During the Ministerial Session, the participants approved a number of decisions, including on: the 4th annual report of the Secretary General on the state of democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Europe; Populism - How strong are Europe’s checks and balances, fighting violent extremism and radicalization leading to terrorism; the Council's proposals on the refugee crisis, ensuring the long-term effectiveness of the European Convention on Human Rights system; and on the Council of Europe's neighborhood policy and the key role in conflict resolution. 

The Council of Europe's Convention on Offences relating to Cultural Property was also formally adopted and opened for signature.