Prime Minister and Labour Party Leader Robert Abela has pledged stability, economic security and a new wave of reforms as he launched the Labour Party’s campaign ahead of the May 30 general election with the theme ‘Int Malta’.

In his address at Tigne Point, Abela said the upcoming election would determine the future direction of the country at a time of growing international uncertainty and economic instability.

“We must decide on the future of our country and its leadership,” Abela said, insisting that Malta needed experienced leadership capable of continuing to steer the country through global challenges.

The Prime Minister pointed to ongoing international instability, including concerns surrounding energy security and economic pressures being discussed in Cyprus among international and EU leaders following recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

“There is no country living in a bubble,” Abela said. “Since the pandemic, international crises have become the new normal.”

Abela argued that his administration had already demonstrated its ability to lead during difficult periods, including the pandemic and successive international conflicts, while continuing to protect families and businesses from global economic shocks.

“We never came before the people and said that promises could no longer be fulfilled,” he said. “Instead, we continued working to help people more.”

The Labour leader pledged that a future Labour government would continue guaranteeing stability in energy prices, economic growth and the country’s finances, while also introducing a series of new social and economic measures aimed at improving quality of life.

Abela announced that the Labour Party would present what he described as an ambitious five-year plan built around the well-being of citizens.

Among the measures being proposed are new initiatives to help families achieve a better work-life balance, stronger support for first-time buyers, incentives for young entrepreneurs launching start-ups, and further assistance for pensioners.

The Prime Minister highlighted what he described as the government’s achievements over recent years, including tax reductions, increases in children’s allowances and student stipends, grants for parents and first-time buyers, economic growth and investment in public open spaces.

“We kept our word,” Abela said. “In many cases, we delivered even more than we promised.”

He said Malta had registered one of the strongest economic performances in Europe while strengthening its international standing during periods of global instability.

Abela praised his cabinet, parliamentary group and party officials, saying they remained united and determined ahead of the electoral campaign.

The Labour leader also called for a respectful electoral campaign and appealed for national unity despite political differences. He said he respected his adversaries but did not rule out convincing them as well.

“We are all Maltese and Gozitan brothers and sisters,” he said. “My dream has always been for us to live in a united country built on mutual respect.”