Malta Highlights Investment, Jobs and Economic Resilience at Commonwealth Summit
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Ian Borg led Malta's delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2026) in Antigua and Barbuda, where discussions focused on economic resilience, investment, international cooperation and the challenges facing smaller economies.
The summit brought together representatives from 56 Commonwealth countries, ranging from small island states to some of the world's largest economies. King Charles III also attended the events, during which Dr Borg had an exchange with the monarch.
Malta Calls for Investment That Benefits People
During an executive session of Commonwealth leaders, Dr Borg stressed the importance of ensuring that international investment reaches smaller economies and delivers tangible benefits for their populations.
He argued that promising ideas must be developed into well-prepared projects with clear implementation plans if countries are to attract the financing required to bring them to life.
The Deputy Prime Minister also encouraged Commonwealth members to cooperate more closely and share successful approaches to economic development.
Drawing on Malta's experience, Dr Borg highlighted the country's open economy, international connectivity, stability and investment in workforce skills as factors supporting its development.
He said the success of investment should be measured not only by financial figures but also by the quality of jobs created, the growth of local businesses, the development of new skills and the adoption of technology.
Supporting Families and Businesses Amid Global Challenges
Dr Borg said Malta's economic performance has enabled the government to continue supporting families and businesses despite ongoing international challenges.
He emphasised that placing people at the centre of policymaking remains a guiding principle of the government's approach.
Economic resilience was a major theme of the Commonwealth discussions, with leaders examining ways to strengthen cooperation and create opportunities for investment and employment.
Maritime Security and Protection of Trade Routes
The Deputy Prime Minister also addressed the importance of maritime security, including the protection of international trade routes and critical undersea infrastructure.
He referred to cooperation between Malta and Antigua and Barbuda concerning the Global Maritime Sanctions Monitoring Centre as an example of countries working together to address shared international challenges.
New Trade Opportunities Discussed at Commonwealth Business Forum
Dr Borg participated in the Commonwealth Business Forum, where he addressed a session titled Beyond Superpowers: The Rise of New Economies.
The discussion brought together business leaders and representatives of international companies to explore trade, investment and growth opportunities, including those available to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Malta's delegation also held bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening international relationships and identifying new opportunities for the country.
Malta Raises Peace, Climate Change and Cooperation
Reflecting on the summit, Dr Borg said the meetings provided an opportunity to reinforce the values and principles shared by Commonwealth countries while addressing major global challenges.
“In the face of challenges, politics must always keep people at its centre,” Dr Borg said.
He added that Malta's delegation, including Minister Chris Fearne, used the occasion to raise issues such as peace, climate change and international cooperation.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the bilateral discussions could help establish relationships that create new opportunities for Malta.
Photo credit: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM).
