Prime Minister discusses national priorities for this legislature with the MCESD

At the first meeting of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) for this legislature, the Prime Minister of Malta, Robert Abela, accompanied by the Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, and the Minister for Youth, Social Policy and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Omar Farrugia, met with MCESD representatives to discuss the Government’s priorities for the next five years.

Prime Minister Robert Abela reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining close consultation with all social partners. He highlighted the relationship of mutual respect and cooperation that has developed over recent years, including during critical periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Government and the social partners worked together to safeguard workers, families, employers and the country’s economic stability. He also referred to the collaborative work undertaken through the MCESD on Malta Vision 2050, as well as on various sectoral and collective agreements that strengthened workers’ conditions. The Prime Minister noted that these discussions and initiatives have always been guided by respect, constructive dialogue and a shared commitment to the common good.

He further emphasised the MCESD’s vital role as Malta’s principal platform for social dialogue, where the Government and social partners come together to discuss and help shape decisions of national importance.

Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti stated that sustainable progress cannot be achieved unilaterally but must be built collectively through meaningful dialogue, where economic growth is accompanied by social advancement and investment in workers’ skills. “As a Government, we remain committed to working closely with all social partners to ensure that the use of European funds and our policy decisions continue to improve people’s quality of life and leave no one behind,” Minister Azzopardi Tanti said.

MCESD Chairperson Maria Micallef stressed the importance of maintaining momentum in implementing Malta Vision 2050, a vision whose launch was strongly supported by the MCESD Council. “As a country, we must continue moving forward through Malta Vision 2050. The value of this vision lies not only in its aspirations but also in our ability to remain focused on its implementation and objectives,” she stated.

She concluded by emphasising that continued commitment to dialogue will enable Malta not only to address current challenges but also to build a more sustainable, inclusive and prosperous future for generations to come, while further enhancing the quality of life and well-being of the Maltese and Gozitan people.

The social partners welcomed the opportunity to meet with the Prime Minister and the Cabinet members present, sharing their recommendations and perspectives. They underscored the need for continuity and stronger coordination within the national consultation process and reiterated the importance of ensuring that the MCESD remains at the centre of social dialogue, with a continued focus on stability, sustainability and the quality of life of the Maltese and Gozitan people.