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Speaker Spotlight – Hon. Ian Borg

By September 4, 2026 No Comments

HON. IAN BORG

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health

Dr Ian Borg currently serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health. He previously served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, and was Chair-in-Office of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 2024.

Born in Dingli, Malta, Dr Ian Borg’s passion for public service began early. He pursued studies in law at the University of Malta, earning a Doctorate in Laws in 2012, together with a Diploma in Public Notarial Practice and a Bachelor of Laws degree. His legal background has significantly shaped his approach to governance and public policy.

At just 19, he was elected Mayor of Dingli in 2005, one of Malta’s youngest mayors, serving until 2013. His early political success led him to national politics, where he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for EU Funds and the 2017 EU Presidency. His leadership was instrumental in achieving a 100% absorption rate of EU funds for the 2007-2013 period.

As Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, and Capital Projects (2017-2022), Dr. Borg spearheaded major projects like the Kappara, Marsa Junction and the Central Link projects. He led the development of significant green spaces, including Ta’ Qali National Park and the Bengħajsa National Park and launched Malta’s first Metro Plan aimed at transforming public transportation.

Between 2022 and June 2026, Dr Borg served as Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, later assuming responsibility for Tourism. During this period, he advanced Malta’s international priorities and strengthened the country’s diplomatic profile. His leadership was particularly notable during Malta’s Presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in 2023 and 2024, as well as during Malta’s 2024 Chairpersonship of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

In February 2024, Dr Borg visited Ukraine, reaffirming Malta’s solidarity with the Ukrainian people and its commitment to peace, dialogue and international cooperation. He also chaired Malta’s Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in 2025, further consolidating Malta’s role on the international stage.

On 26 November 2024, Ian Borg was assigned the Tourism portfolio in addition to his role as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Foreign and European Affairs.

As Minister responsible for Tourism, Dr Borg oversaw a record year for Malta’s tourism industry, spearheading key reforms to enhance sustainability, quality and competitiveness. He also promoted greater local and sustainable investment, while strengthening Malta’s international connectivity with strategic markets, including the United States, further consolidating the country’s position as a leading tourism destination.

Since September 2024, Dr Ian Borg has served as Deputy Prime Minister, following his election as Deputy Leader for Parliamentary Affairs of Partit Laburista (Labour Party). In June 2026, he was appointed Minister for Health, assuming responsibility for overseeing Malta’s healthcare system, strengthening public health services, and advancing the Government’s vision for accessible, high-quality healthcare for all.

As Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, Dr Borg plays a central role in the Government’s policy development and implementation, contributing to national reforms and strategic initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of Maltese and Gozitan citizens.

Dr Ian Borg has been recognised on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list (2013) and European Voice’s Top 40 Under 40 (2017), underscoring his contributions to both European and global politics.