VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition leader Alex Borg met formally for the first time as party leaders on Friday evening, striking a conciliatory tone and pledging to put national interest above partisan rivalry. The meeting, held at the Labour Party’s Headquarters, began with brief remarks to the press before continuing behind closed doors. It followed Abela’s invitation earlier this week to the newly elected Nationalist Party leader.
Abela congratulated Borg, calling the encounter the start of “more exciting times” for Malta. He urged both parties to work together “without going into personal fights,” stressing the importance of consensus on national projects such as land reclamation, the freeport’s regeneration, and the appointment of a new chief justice. The Labour leader emphasised strengthening institutions and promoting a respectful political culture, saying Malta must “keep the white and red flag flying.” He also confirmed that the 2026 budget date would be announced shortly, amid speculation about an early election. However, Abela flagged ongoing disagreements over public financing of political parties, insisting tax money should be reserved for the common good.
Borg, Malta’s youngest Opposition leader at 30, echoed the call for collaboration. Promising to “go beyond red and blue,” he pledged to represent all Maltese and Gozitans, and to promote youth involvement in politics. Still, he criticised the government’s failure to consult the Opposition on Helena Dalli’s recent appointment as acting president, urging more transparency in such decisions. Both leaders were flanked by their deputies, with observers noting the unusually conciliatory tone on both sides.
– Photo Malta Nationalist Party –
(ITALPRESS).
