Moldova assumes presidency of Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers; support for Ukraine - key priority

Moldova officially assumed the presidency of the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers, during a ceremony held in Strasbourg on November 14. Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popsoi presented the priorities of the Moldovan mandate, emphasizing that support for Ukraine and the operationalization of the Special Tribunal for Aggression Crimes, as well as the Complaints Commission, are the key directions of the Presidency.

In his speech, Mihai Popsoi highlighted Moldova's firm commitment to promoting the values of the Council of Europe and contributing to the strengthening of democracy and the rule of law in Europe.

“We take over the presidency at a time marked by challenges, and the role of the Council of Europe in defending democracy, human rights and the rule of law is essential. We have learned that democracy is not a destination, but a process that requires constant involvement, courage and responsibility. Moldova stays a steadfast supporter of the organization's fundamental values and its mission to promote peace and solidarity on the continent,” said the foreign affairs minister.

Among the priorities announced by the official, there are the strengthening of the system of the European Convention on Human Rights, promoting children's rights, combating violence against women, strengthening social rights, supporting local democracy and fighting against disinformation. At the same time, the Moldovan authorities aim to boost cooperation between member states in the field of human rights’ protection and good governance.

During the six-month mandate, Moldova will organize over 30 events—from ministerial meetings to cultural activities—both in Chisinau and Strasbourg. The highlight of the Presidency will be the Ministerial Session, due to be held in Chisinau on May 14-15 2026, with the participation of delegations from the 46 member states.

Mihai Popsoi thanked Malta for its exemplary conduct of its mandate over the past six months. During the ceremony, Malta's Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism Christopher Cutajar officially handed over the symbolic key and gavel to the Moldovan official, marking the official transfer of the Presidency.

The event was attended by Secretary-General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset, as well as ambassadors from all member states of the organization.

Moldova will hold the Presidency of the Committee of Ministers as of November 14, 2025, till May 15, 2026. This is the second time the country is exercising this mandate; the first presidency took place in 2003, shortly after joining the Council of Europe in 1995.