# Ian Borg

Ian Borg (born 1986) is a Maltese politician currently serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism (MFT), as well as the Chair-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Recognised for his dynamic leadership and diplomatic acumen, Dr Borg plays a pivotal role in shaping Malta’s foreign policy, elevating the country’s international profile, fostering relationships with individual nations and global organisations, while also coordinating legislative initiatives and overseeing parliamentary matters.

## Early life and education

Ian Borg was born and raised in Dingli, Malta. His early interest in public service and governance led him to pursue a legal education. He graduated from the University of Malta in 2012 after successfully completing a Doctoral Degree in Laws, a Diploma in Public Notarial Practice, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Law. His legal background has informed much of his work in public service, providing him with a strong foundation in governance and international law.

## Personal life

Ian Borg is known for his commitment to public service and his passion for Malta’s development on the global stage. He continues to play an influential role in both national and international affairs, with a focus on diplomacy, economic growth, and sustainable development. He is married to Rachelle Borg Dingli, and they are parents to Eve. He is also noticeable for his height, he is approximately 195cm (6ft5).

## Political career

Dr Borg is an active figure in Maltese politics, frequently engaging with both domestic and international audiences to promote Malta’s interests and advocate for global cooperation.

### Mayor of Dingli

Borg’s political career began at an exceptionally young age. In 2005, at just 19 years old, he was elected Mayor of Dingli, becoming one of the youngest mayors in Malta's history. His tenure as mayor was marked by a commitment to local development and community engagement. He was re-elected in 2008 and again in 2012, serving until 2013 when he transitioned to national politics.

### Parliamentary Secretary for the EU Presidency 2017 and EU Funds

In 2013, being the youngest member of the Cabinet, Borg was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for the EU Presidency 2017 and EU Funds within the Office of the Prime Minister, a role in which he was responsible for overseeing Malta’s presidency of the Council of the European Union and managing the country's EU funds. His leadership was instrumental in Malta achieving a 100% absorption rate of EU funds for the 2007-2013 programming period.

### Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, and Capital Projects

In 2017, Borg was appointed Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, and Capital Projects. During his tenure, he led major infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing Malta’s connectivity and sustainability. Under his guidance, significant progress was made in the development of road networks, public transportation systems, and other critical infrastructure projects.
During his mandate, he oversaw the setup of the Infrastructure Malta agency, which led to the creation of important infrastructural projects such as the Kappara junction, the Marsa junction project, and the Central Link project. Dr Borg also spearheaded several transformative initiatives, including the first major works of the Ta' Qali National Park and the Bengħajsa National Park, two of Malta's largest green spaces and public recreational areas.
In collaboration with local councils and Infrastructure Malta, he also initiated a nationwide project to rebuild hundreds of residential roads across all localities, significantly improving infrastructure and accessibility for communities throughout Malta. Additionally, he oversaw various projects carried out by the Public Works Department, contributing to the modernization and enhancement of the country’s public infrastructure.
One of Dr Borg’s key achievements was launching Malta's first tangible plan for a Metro system, a groundbreaking project aimed at revolutionizing public transportation and addressing the long-term mobility needs of the nation.

### Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade

In March 2022, Borg was appointed Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade. In this role, he has been actively engaged in advancing Malta’s foreign policy objectives, particularly in the areas of global peace, security, and economic development. Borg’s diplomatic efforts have been recognized at various levels, including his chairpersonship of the United Nations Security Council in February 2023 and April 2024. He is also serving as the 2024 Chair-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), where he has been instrumental in addressing pressing global challenges while helping this organization secure the required resources and leadership for its future sustainability.
In February 2024, Borg visited Ukraine as his first international visit as Chairman-in-Office in a show of solidarity amid ongoing conflict. During his visit, he emphasized the importance of education in the face of adversity, writing "L-edukazzjoni hija l-akbar ċavetta għall-paċi" (Education is the key to peace) on the walls of a bombed school in a symbolic act of support. This visit underscored Malta’s commitment to global peace and the protection of fundamental rights during wartime. Borg’s leadership continues to be recognized internationally, and in 2025, he will chair the Maltese Presidency of the Council of Europe, further contributing to Malta’s role in promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across Europe.

### Deputy Leader for Parliamentary Affairs

In September 2024, Dr Ian Borg was elected Deputy Leader for Parliamentary Affairs of Partit Laburista (Labour Party). In this regard, he was thus appointed Deputy Prime Minister, in addition to his role as Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade. This new position further strengthens his influence within the Maltese government, where he will play a critical role in coordinating legislative initiatives and overseeing parliamentary matters, solidifying his standing as a key figure in Malta's political landscape.

### Minister for Tourism

After Clayton Bartolo tendered his resignation from the Labour Party on 26 November 2024, Ian Borg was assigned the Tourism portfolio in addition to his role as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade

## Recognition and achievements

Dr Ian Borg has been widely recognised for his contributions to both national and international politics. In 2016, he was named in Forbes’ "30 Under 30" list for policymakers, highlighting his influence and potential in the political sphere. In 2017, he was included in the European Voice’s "Top 40 Under 40," further cementing his reputation as a leading figure in European politics.