At the Labour Party’s closing congress, Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg highlighted Malta’s stability at a time when political and economic uncertainty is reshaping much of Europe.

Addressing delegates, Borg pointed to developments abroad, where governments have fallen and political systems are shifting, arguing that while other countries are still searching for direction, Malta has secured a degree of certainty.

Much of the speech focused on economic measures, particularly the decision to shield families and businesses from rising energy costs. While households across Europe are facing increasing pressure, Borg said Malta has kept prices stable and maintained economic activity.

Stability, he said, is the result of political choices, pointing to what he described as long term planning and resilience, backed by positive assessments from international institutions.

He also referred to Malta’s role abroad, saying the country continues to command respect in European and international forums. Prime Minister Robert Abela, he added, is respected by his counterparts, while Malta should be seen not simply as a small country but as a strategic nation with an important history.

A significant part of the speech was directed at the party’s grassroots. Borg said none of the country’s recent achievements, including economic stability and international standing, would have been possible without the support of party members and activists. He pointed to work carried out at community level, from door to door outreach to helping individuals in need, as central to the party’s continued success.

Labour, he said, is more than a political party, describing it as a movement built on resilience and collective effort, with unity remaining its strongest asset.

He urged supporters to build on what has already been achieved rather than stop short, framing the choice as one between consolidating progress or pushing for further gains.

In that context, “Malta Aqwa” was presented as an ongoing mission rather than a slogan, centred on better jobs, stronger businesses and prioritising health, education and the environment, alongside greater opportunities for future generations.

He closed with a call for unity and readiness, urging supporters to remain engaged as the party looks ahead to what he described as the next chapter.

Overall, the speech focused less on new proposals and more on reinforcing a central argument that in a rapidly changing international landscape, continuity and stability remain the government’s main political message.