Following the launch of its regional framework policy for the Gulf in 2025, Malta is working to continue strengthening its economic and sociocultural engagements across the world with new regional frameworks for the Sub-Saharan African region, as well as for Asia and Oceania.
Ian Borg
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg announced these regional policies on Thursday evening, during the annual New Year’s greetings event for Ambassadors and High Commissioners. Malta’s policy for the Gulf, launched in December, is consolidating Malta’s political dialogue, economic cooperation and socio-cultural ties in this region. Likewise, the new policies planned for 2026 reflect its ambition to continue expanding its role as a reliable and constructive partner in Africa, Asia and Oceania as well.
Dr Borg explained that in an era characterised by increasing instability, meaningful dialogue and close cooperation remain indispensable. “Conflict and human suffering in our neighbourhood and beyond continue to reinforce Malta’s belief that multilateralism and international law are more necessary than ever before,” he said, as he highlighted the need to prioritise the protection of civilians, while ensuring accountability.
Throughout 2025, Malta also maintained its commitment to bilateral cooperation. “The trust built through our collaboration in international fora in recent years has enabled us to forge new partnerships, deepen political consultations and identify new areas of cooperation with many other countries,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
Dr Borg also talked about the aspiration for the Mediterranean as a sea of peace, stability and prosperity. “Through the Pact of the Mediterranean and other regional cooperation frameworks, we continue to advocate joint solutions to shared challenges – from security and climate stress to economic inclusion and connectivity,” he stated.
“As we look towards 2026, I hope that the strong foundations we have established together will continue to guide our shared journey – strengthening multilateral cooperation and bilateral partnerships, in the interest of peace, stability and prosperity for our peoples,” Dr Borg concluded.
The event was also addressed by Mgr Savio Hon Tai-Fai, the Apostolic Nuncio in Malta, as the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps.
