PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER Speaker of the House of Representatives meets Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic

Speaker of the House of Representatives Carmelo Abela met with Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to Malta Stella Bezirtzoglou to discuss bilateral relations and parliamentary cooperation.

The Speaker and the Ambassador emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation between the Maltese and Greek Parliaments, including through the establishment of a Malta-Greece Parliamentary Friendship Group. Such a group would provide a platform for regular dialogue and the exchange of experiences between Members of the two Parliaments.

The discussion also highlighted the value of closer coordination on matters of common interest, particularly within European Union forums. The Speaker underlined the importance of maintaining regular contact between Parliaments and their presiding officers and, where appropriate, coordinating positions on shared concerns.

Turning to regional and international developments, the Speaker stressed the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in addressing challenges, particularly in the Mediterranean. He emphasised that diplomatic efforts must be given the opportunity to succeed in promoting peaceful solutions.

The Speaker and the Ambassador also highlighted the close connection between peace and security in the Mediterranean and stability across Europe. They reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation and dialogue in support of regional peace and security.

The meeting reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between Malta and Greece and the shared commitment to strengthening these ties through parliamentary diplomacy.