Prime Minister Robert Abela met with representatives of the Forum Unions Maltin (FUM) for a consultation meeting in preparation for next year's Budget, in which he said that the country is approaching a Budget that will not shy away from investing in the most crucial areas, including the social sector, pensions, and youth. 

In a statement, the Office of the Prime Minister said that during the meeting, Abela emphasised that the upcoming Budget is being prepared against a backdrop where, despite mounting international challenges, the country continues to enjoy economic and social stability.

In this regard, he referred to the rating issued by the international credit agency DBRS, which once again reaffirmed its confidence in the Maltese economy by assigning the highest rating it has ever awarded the country. He also cited the latest figures published by the National Statistics Office (NSO), showing that Malta recorded an increase in exports between January and August of this year compared to the same period the previous year. Abela said that the country's labour market is robust and reiterated the government's commitment to continue creating further opportunities for skills development, while enhancing prospects for students and young people.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the upcoming Budget will not shy away from investing in areas crucial to Maltese society, including the social sector, pensions, and youth. In this context, he also reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining fuel and energy price subsidies so that, despite international challenges, Maltese families and businesses remain protected and the national economy stays strong.

Abela also spoke about the strength of the trade union sector in the country, which continues to operate within a climate of industrial peace and social dialogue. He noted that the strong collective agreements signed in recent months and years are continuing to lead to ever-improving working conditions for employees. The Prime Minister concluded by emphasising that these achievements are made possible by a robust economy that continues to generate wealth and offer positive prospects for the future.

Also present at the meeting alongside the Prime Minister were the Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection Keith Azzopardi Tanti, and the Minister for Youth, Wellbeing and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Omar Farrugia.