Taking over of Moldova's presidency at Council of Europe marked with raising of national flag, tricolour tram's launch

The flag of Moldova has been raised in Place de la République in Strasbourg, during a solemn ceremony marking the country's taking over of the presidency of the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers. During the solemn ceremony, the singing of the anthems of Moldova, Malta and Europe marked the official transfer of the mandate from the Maltese Presidency to Moldova.

The event was attended by Moldova's Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popsoi, Malta's Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Christopher Cutajar, Council of Europe's Deputy Secretary General, Bjørn Berge, and Alain Jund, representative of the Strasbourg City Hall.

According to a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the agenda also included the inauguration of the Moldovan Presidency tram, inscribed with the official logo, an initiative carried out in partnership with the Strasbourg City Hall. During the presidency, the tram running on the main routes in Strasbourg will bring Moldova to the attention of the city's residents and visitors, as a symbol of the  country's openness and commitment to the pillars of the Council of Europe – democracy, the rule of law and human rights.

In his speech, Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi emphasized that Moldova brought to the Presidency not only a commitment to strengthening the organization's fundamental values, but also part of its cultural identity. On this occasion, the Moldovan diplomacy head announced the launch of a wide-ranging artistic programme in Strasbourg, which will include concerts by such bands as Vali Boghean & Band, Trigon, Lupii lui Calancea, and the Osoianu Sisters.

“We assume this responsibility with gratitude and a deep sense of commitment to our European family, its enduring values and principles. Culture gives meaning to democracy. Through this programme, we want to share a part of our identity, inspired by generations through our unique creativity and spirit,” said Minister Mihai Popsoi.

At the same time, the Moldovan official expressed gratitude to the authorities of Strasbourg for their support in organizing these events. Referring to the priorities of the mandate, Minister Popsoi reiterated Moldova's commitment to promoting peace, human dignity and solidarity in Europe, including through supporting the Council of Europe's activities dedicated to Ukraine.