‘Our next election manifesto will be even more ambitious than the last’ – Abela

Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela has set the political stage for the upcoming election, promising an even more ambitious manifesto than the one that swept him into power in January 2020. Standing before a crowd at the Labour Party’s headquarters in Pietà, Abela delivered a speech that echoed with promises of a greener, more digital, and more prosperous Malta.

From Pietà to Parliament: A Green Agenda

Abela’s speech, delivered under the watchful eyes of the Labour Party’s iconic red banner, was heavy on environmental commitments. He pledged to make Malta a carbon-neutral country by 2050, a goal that, if achieved, would place Malta among the most environmentally progressive nations in the EU. The Prime Minister also promised to invest heavily in renewable energy, with a focus on solar and wind power.

But Abela’s green agenda isn’t just about lofty goals. It’s about tangible changes that Maltese people can see and feel. He promised to plant one million trees across the islands, a move that would not only help mitigate climate change but also transform Malta’s urban landscapes. The Prime Minister also pledged to create more green spaces in urban areas, a nod to the growing demand for greener cities.

Digital Transformation: From Silicon Valley to St. Julian’s

Abela’s manifesto also promises a digital revolution for Malta. The Prime Minister wants to transform Malta into a digital hub, attracting tech giants and start-ups alike. He envisions a future where Malta’s tech industry is as vibrant as its tourism sector, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

At the heart of this digital transformation is the promise of high-speed internet for all. Abela pledged to ensure that every home and business in Malta has access to high-speed internet by 2025. This ambitious goal would place Malta at the forefront of digital connectivity in Europe.

An Economy for All: From Valletta to Victoria

Abela’s manifesto isn’t just about grand plans for the future. It’s also about addressing the challenges of today. The Prime Minister promised to create an economy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few. He pledged to create more jobs, especially in the north of Malta, where unemployment has long been a challenge.

Abela also promised to tackle the housing crisis, a issue that has been a major concern for many Maltese people. He pledged to build more affordable homes, especially in areas like Msida and Żebbuġ, where the demand for housing is high.

But Abela’s promises aren’t just about bricks and mortar. They’re also about people. The Prime Minister pledged to invest in education and training, ensuring that every Maltese person has the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century economy.