Prime Minister Robert Abela highlights inclusive economic growth during the Concordia Summit in New York
Prime Minister Robert Abela continued his engagements in New York on the margins of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, addressing the Concordia Annual Summit and participating in a high-level meeting on Children’s Rights in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.
At the Concordia Annual Summit, the Prime Minister argued that economic growth should be judged not only by headline figures, but by the opportunities it creates in people’s lives.
Speaking about the global economy and trade, he said that, for an island state such as Malta, trade is not merely an economic concept but an essential condition for prosperity. It enables goods to arrive, services to cross borders, ideas to travel, investment to flow and opportunities to be created.
The Prime Minister observed that the global economy is undergoing a period of transformation, as trade routes shift, supply chains are reconsidered, and technology and climate pressures change how businesses operate and governments plan.
In this context, he stressed that resilience should not become protectionism. Instead, countries must build supply chains capable of withstanding shocks and partnerships that reduce vulnerabilities without creating new barriers.
He also referred to Malta Vision 2050, which seeks to ensure that economic growth results in better opportunities, higher-quality employment, stronger skills, sustainable communities and a more competitive economy.
Referring to artificial intelligence and digital trade, the Prime Minister said that these offer smaller economies new opportunities to reach global markets through talent, agility and ideas. Technological progress, however, must broaden opportunity rather than deepen inequality.
This message was developed further during a high-level meeting at the United Nations Headquarters, convened by France, Spain and Kenya, on safeguarding children’s rights in the age of artificial intelligence.
The Prime Minister participated in this meeting where it was maintained that the development of artificial intelligence must remain human-centred, respect fundamental rights, and be safe and trustworthy.
Dr Abela also attended the meeting “The Road Ahead: One Year After the New York Declaration and the Comprehensive 20-point Peace Plan”, where the serious and concerning situation in the Middle East was a key focus of discussion. During the meeting, the Prime Minister reiterated that Malta has consistently supported the two-State solution as the path towards lasting peace in the region. A position that is now gaining increasing support, including from leaders of major countries.
During the day, the Prime Minister also attended the opening of the General Debate of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, together with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Dr. Ian Borg and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Mr. Chris Fearne.
