Malta signs Council of Europe Convention

Malta signed the European Outline Convention on Transfrontier Co-operation between Territorial Communities or Authorities (ETS No. 106) on 7^th May 1999.

The Hon. Dr. Joe Borg, Minister of Foreign Affairs signed this Convention in Budapest, Hungary, on behalf of the Government of Malta in the presence of Mr.Daniel Tarschys, Secretary General of the Council of Europe.

Minister Borg is in Hungary to attend the official ceremonies to commemorate the 50^th Anniversary of the foundation of the Council of Europe.

The primary objective of this Convention is to achieve greater unity between Member States and to promote co-operation between them. This is fundamental in promoting understanding between peoples and, consequently, stability in Europe. The fostering of peaceful co-operation between regions situated on either side of a border is also particularly important as this will lead to confidence-building measures enhancing good neighbourly relations and thereby help to develop a tolerant and peaceful Europe.

This Convention was opened for signature in Madrid, Spain, on 21^st May 1980. To date it has been ratified by 21 countries out of 41 Member States.