PM vows stable energy supply as inflation gap with euro area widens
Prime Minister Robert Abela has reassured social partners that Malta’s supply and pricing of oil and gas will remain stable despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. He also confirmed that energy subsidies will continue, describing government policy as one that will keep supporting families and businesses. Referring to recent Eurostat figures, he noted that inflation across the euro area rose from 1.9% to 2.6% between February and March, while insisting Malta did not follow the same trend. According to Abela, inflation locally not only declined during the period but is expected to ease further over the course of the year. He said the government had anticipated such external pressures and remained prepared to shield households from volatility in international energy markets. The remarks come authorities reinforce confidence in Malta’s economic stability amid global uncertainty and fluctuating energy prices. (Times of Malta)
Long-haul expansion key to Malta tourism future, says Borg amid fuel supply concerns
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg has said Malta’s tourism future depends on expanding long-haul flight connections, including the upcoming direct route to New York. Speaking at the Deloitte Malta Aviation Conference, he noted that while short-haul markets are already mature, growth will increasingly come from long-haul links. He stressed that connectivity is the single most important factor in national competitiveness, given that over 98% of visitors arrive by air, and underlined the need for a balanced airline mix. His remarks came amid wider concerns about European jet fuel supply, including warnings from the head of the International Energy Agency about possible shortages, and reports of fuel constraints affecting some Italian airports and airlines such as Wizz Air. Prime Minister Robert Abela insisted Malta would remain secure in its energy supplies. Connectivity strategy prioritises diversification accessibility. (Maltatoday)
PN accuses PBS of bias and government messaging dominance
The Nationalist Party has raised concerns over what it describes as an increasingly partial approach within Malta’s Public Broadcasting Services, arguing that government messaging now dominates both news coverage and entertainment programmes. It said the issue extends beyond news content into quizzes and other formats, where references to government benefits risk turning public service broadcasting into what the party called a form of hidden propaganda. It also cited previous rulings by the Broadcasting Authority and the courts, which stress the need for balanced and neutral presentation in state media, warning that these standards are being overlooked. It warned that when public funds are used to promote a single narrative, citizens are deprived of balanced information and the principle of impartiality is undermined. Calling for reform, PN said Malta needs independent national broadcaster free from partisan influence, stressing PBS belongs country. (The Malta Independent)
