Nine Small European States Formalize Alliance at Andorra Conference

Leaders from nine small European states have formalized their cooperation through a memorandum of understanding, committing to at least one annual meeting of their parliamentary presidents.

The agreement emerged from the 19th Conference of Presidents of Parlaments of Small European States, hosted in Andorra and attended by representatives from Andorra, Cyprus, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, and San Marino. Andorra's Síndic General, Carles Ensenyat, announced the development, noting it transforms the previously informal gatherings—initiated in Monaco in 2006—into a structured body with official representation in forums such as the OSCE and Council of Europe.

This year's sessions in Andorra focused on parliamentary diplomacy, strategies for rebalancing legislative power amid modern democratic challenges, and the implications of artificial intelligence for parliamentary work. Ensenyat emphasized shared challenges despite each nation's distinct traits, enabling valuable exchanges of experiences.

A key discussion centered on diverse relationships with the European Union. Luxembourg, Malta, and Cyprus highlighted membership advantages. Montenegro aims for accession by 2028. Iceland maintains ties via the European Economic Area and has no plans to resume accession talks following a referendum. San Marino views its proposed association agreement as an opportunity that safeguards sovereignty and national specifics, outweighing risks. Monaco remains cautious, prioritizing citizen protections and unique features over broader European market access.

Ensenyat described the range of positions as a resource for mutual learning, allowing states to benefit from one another's approaches. He advocated a coherent voice for small states in international settings, where each holds equal voting weight regardless of size. Future rotations will see Monaco host next, followed by Iceland.

Participants also visited the Consell General and Casa de la Vall, holding sessions on legislative-executive dynamics. Ensenyat pointed to effective separations of powers across the group but stressed the importance of sharing solutions to common issues, without copying models wholesale given Andorra's distinct context. Shared vulnerabilities in negotiations and post-legislation assessments offered further collaboration points.