The Attorney General of Malta

On behalf of the Office of the Attorney General of Malta, it is my great delight and honour to invite you to Malta for the 18th International Association of Prosecutors Regional Conference (Europe). In the perennial struggle against crime, encompassing money laundering, terrorist financing, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction among other criminal offenses, a notable trend has emerged—one that traverses myriad jurisdictions. The detrimental impact of financial crime and other serious offences on the economy is profound. Criminals, in their pursuit of illegitimate gains, exhibit an increasing dynamism and adaptability, forging networks that span jurisdictions to shield their illicit activities. Exploiting vulnerabilities inherent in globalization, digitalization, and the continuous evolution of new technologies, criminals pose unprecedented challenges to law enforcement agencies.

To counter these threats effectively, the establishment of a robust regime demands a collective committment across all sectors.  Collaboration and cooperation among diverse entities are imperative for ensuring vigorous prosecutions and addressing the ever-evolving challenges posed by criminal enterprises.

The IAP Regional Conference, set in Malta, aims to foster precisely this type of collaboration, leveraging upon Malta’s commitment to combating transnational crime.

The combination in wealth of art, architecture and concentration of historical areas around Malta makes this magnificent island an incomparable experience.  Valletta, the capital city, was founded soon after the Great Siege of Malta of 1565. The Order of Saint John, aided by the most respected European architects of the 16th century, conceived and planned the city as a single, holistic creation of the late Renaissance, with a uniform, Hippodamian grid plan within fortified city walls. The fabric of the city includes a compact ensemble of 320 monuments that encapsulate every aspect of the civil, religious, artistic and military functions of its illustrious founders. These include the 16th century buildings of the late Renaissance, such as Saint John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace, as well as the improvements attributed to the military engineers and architects of the 18th century such as the Library and the Manoel Theatre. 

I very much look forward to meeting you in November 2024 to share experiences and fruitful discussions on this theme that is not only relevant to the European region but also goes beyond the European borders. 

Best wishes, 

Dr Victoria Buttigieg,
Attorney General