Minister Ian Borg addresses the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly

“As President of the OSCE, Malta believes in strong synergy between governments and parliamentary structures of member countries, with the aim of ensuring that this organisation remains effective and robust.” These were the words of Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade and Chair-In-Office of the OSCE, Ian Borg, as he addressed the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna, Austria.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is an independent institution that focuses on promoting dialogue and cooperation among parliamentarians of OSCE member states.

Minister Borg reflected on the challenging times that the OSCE is facing and how Malta is working to see progress. He emphasised how, more than ever before, in a world and times of turbulence, there is a need for the OSCE to function well and effectively. In his address to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, Minister Borg stated that the potential of this Assembly is highly significant and stressed that parliamentary concerns are critical.

The Chair-In-Office recalled how, just two days ago, the world marked two years since the beginning of the Russian invasion in Ukraine and stated that the cessation of this war remains the absolute priority of this Presidency. He continued by saying that conflicts and tensions in the region and beyond will remain high on the OSCE agenda.

“Although we took over the leadership of this organisation quite recently, we wanted to set forward a number of priorities that encompass all dimensions of the OSCE,” said Minister Borg. Here, he had the opportunity to report on the Maltese Presidency’s work programme under the theme of ‘Strengthening Resilience. Enhancing Security.’

On the margins of this meeting, Minister Borg continued with more meetings, including with the President and the Secretary-General of the General Assembly, Pia Kauma and Roberto Montella, respectively. He also met with the Maltese Parliamentary delegation formed by Amanda Spiteri Grech, Alex Muscat, and Joe Giglio.

Minister Borg also had a number of internal meetings, including with the Secretary-General of the OSCE, Helga Schmid, and with the Permanent Representation team of Malta to the OSCE.