For the second time in a decade, Malta will be hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

The significance of this summit is immediately apparent when you consider the numbers. The Commonwealth is an association of 53 nations that together represent 2.2 billion people. That is one third of the global population.

At CHOGM Malta 2015, as the host country, Malta will once again contribute to strengthening the concept of the Commonwealth. And that concept is built on the foundation of unity: it’s only by working as a family of 53 nations that the Commonwealth can aspire to achieving important milestones.

However, nations are made of individuals. What does CHOGM Malta 2015 represent to us, both as a nation and as individuals?

In real terms

What CHOGM Malta 2015 should mean to all of us.

• It’s an opportunity for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to the Commonwealth Charter, which expresses the values and aspirations which unite the Commonwealth: democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

• Democracy is under threat from terrorism, despotic rule and disrespect for fundamental freedoms and human rights. CHOGM Malta 2015 promotes peace, prosperity and the commitment to improve the lives of all peoples of the Commonwealth.

• Hosting CHOGM 2015 should bring with it a sense of pride, not only of belonging to the Commonwealth but also of furthering Commonwealth principles.

• The Commonwealth offers a wealth of potential. CHOGM Malta 2015 is an opportunity to tap into this potential.

• Around half of Commonwealth membership is made up of small island States. As a small island State, Malta has a strong voice to discuss the realities and challenges that small island States face and propose solutions.

• As a nation, Malta can strengthen and renew diplomatic relations and trade opportunities, participate in launching educational and cultural programmes, and provide leadership.

• CHOGM 2015 is a networking opportunity. Part of CHOGM 2015, the Business Forum brings together top business leaders from around the world. Maltese businesses and individual sectors have a great opportunity to explore new markets and strengthen their business. That way, we can create a more prosperous Commonwealth.

• The Commonwealth People’s Forum is the largest gathering of civil society organisations within the Commonwealth. This forum is the biggest opportunity for civil society to engage with Commonwealth issues.

• Young people are the future. With 60 per cent of the Commonwealth population under the age of 30, the Commonwealth Youth Forum gives young people an important voice.

• For the first time ever, a Women's Forum is being organised as part of CHOGM Malta 2015. This forum is intended to raise awareness on women’s issues in Commonwealth countries.

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