The European Union Affairs and International Relations Directorate (EUIRD) is responsible for coordinating Malta’s position within EU and International fora for areas pertaining to the Ministry’s portfolio.

In this regard, the EUIRD is responsible for the Ministry’s position during the discussion of new and ongoing proposals at European Union level. Another important function is the preparation of explanatory memoranda setting Malta’s position in relation to specific proposals for consideration and approval by the EU Affairs Inter-Ministerial Committee, Cabinet and the Foreign & European Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives.

The Directorate coordinates and prepares documents for working parties, committees, including the meetings of the Permanent Representatives (COREPER) and Council of Ministers Meetings. Furthermore, it ensures that the pertinent EU Regulations and Directives are correctly transposed, implemented and enforced.

The EURID also coordinates the policy preparations for bilateral meetings with various countries and supports interactions within multilateral fora for areas pertaining to the Ministry’s remit. These include participation in conferences, seminars, workshops and expert groups where necessary within local and international fora. Furthermore, the EUIRD supports the enhancement of International Relations for areas within the Ministry’s portfolio including through cooperation agreements and Memoranda of Understanding.