State Secretary for Political Affairs Frano Matušić attends 135th session of CoE Committee of Ministers in Moldova

The foreign ministers of the 46 member states of the Council of Europe held their regular annual session in Chișinău. The meeting was opened by the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu. In the context of major geopolitical upheavals, pressures on multilateralism, and continued instability in Europe, the session served to define the political priorities of the Council of Europe at the highest level, at a crucial moment for Europe and its citizens. The main topics and discussions during the session focused on the aggression against Ukraine, with particular emphasis on post-war accountability and reconstruction, including the adoption of the Resolution on the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, as well as a common approach to migration, the New Democratic Pact for Europe, the protection of democratic processes, the external action strategy, and effective multilateralism.

In his address, State Secretary Matušić underscored the importance of preserving democratic values and the international legal order in the context of current global challenges. He expressed full support for the New Democratic Pact, emphasizing in particular that democratic systems today face numerous challenges and require constant care, renewal, and strengthening. He stressed that Croatia views the New Democratic Pact as a key initiative for reinforcing democratic foundations, transparency, and the resilience of institutions across Europe. He reiterated Croatia's continuous support and solidarity with Ukraine, emphasizing that the defence of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity represents the defence of the fundamental principles of the Council of Europe. Matušić also referred to Croatia's painful experience as a victim of brutal aggression and expressed sympathy for the suffering of the Ukrainian people. He spoke about Croatia's contribution through its knowledge and experience gained during the Homeland War, mentioning support for the Register of Damage and the signing of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Claims Commission for Ukraine, while expressing full support for the establishment of the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. He emphasized that peace is only possible if firmly grounded in international law.

During the discussion dedicated to migration, Matušić addressed the challenges posed by migration caused by protracted conflicts. He highlighted the need for a balanced approach that simultaneously ensures the protection of human rights, effective protection of state borders, and above all, the security of citizens.

In conclusion, the state secretary referred to the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Republic of Croatia's membership in the Council of Europe, expressing gratitude to Moldova for its successful six-month chairmanship and extending best wishes for the forthcoming chairmanship of the Principality of Monaco over the Committee of Ministers.

On the margins of the ministerial meeting, Matušić met with the Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia, Robert Abisoghomonyan. During the meeting, they exchanged views on bilateral cooperation between the two countries within the framework of the Council of Europe, with particular emphasis on the MONEYVAL Committee in light of the forthcoming adoption of the report on Armenia, as well as on potential areas of joint cooperation within multilateral organizations.

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