Malta set to chair OSCE after Russia vetoes Estonia

Malta is set to chair the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe in 2024, after Russia refused to approve Estonia for the role

During a permanent council meeting in Vienna on Monday, all states participating in the OSCE agreed to recommend Malta’s appointment.

According to media reports citing senior sources, Malta was the only country all member states – including Russia and the US – could agree on.

The decision is expected to be formalised during a meeting of foreign ministers in North Macedonia’s capital Skopje on Thursday.

North Macedonia is currently chairing the world’s largest regional security organisation.

Foreign Minister Ian Borg will hold the position as chairman in office of the OSCE on behalf of Malta.

Borg said he was glad that “the name of Malta managed to garner consensus”.

Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed his gratitude for the confidence shown towards Malta by the 57 states participating in the OSCE.

Abela met OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid in Vienna, where he promised Malta’s support towards the renewal of her mandate.