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CHOGM 2005 to Focus on Digital Divide, Co-operation, Development and Democracy

9 June 2005

The theme for the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Malta, is 'Networking the Commonwealth for Development'. The summit will take place in the country's capital, Valletta, on 25-27 November 2005.

Networking the Commonwealth for Development
 "The theme of 'Networking the Commonwealth for Development' will allow leaders not only to discuss the important issue of bridging the digital divide, but also identify ways of enhancing co-operation for prosperity, development and democracy, and using Commonwealth networks to achieve these goals."

Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon and the Prime Minister of Malta, Dr Lawrence Gonzi, made the announcement in a joint statement released in London and Valletta on 8 June 2005.

Dr Gonzi said: "The Maltese Government and people of Malta look forward to welcoming the Commonwealth Heads of Government to our country for this important summit. Malta is ideally placed to host this Meeting as it stands at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, the European Union and the Commonwealth. Its history and heritage provides a unique and exceptional backdrop for a constructive and forward looking discussion about development through networking."

Mr McKinnon stated: "I know that Commonwealth leaders greatly look forward to their meeting in Malta. The theme of 'Networking the Commonwealth for Development' will allow leaders not only to discuss the important issue of bridging the digital divide, but also identify ways of enhancing co-operation for prosperity, development and democracy, and using Commonwealth networks to achieve these goals. The timing of CHOGM is significant as there are a number of major international meetings on either side of it."

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings are held every two years. Previous CHOGMs have been held in Nigeria (2003), Australia (2002), South Africa (1999), the United Kingdom (1997), New Zealand (1995), Cyprus (1993), Zimbabwe (1991), Malaysia (1989), Canada (1987), The Bahamas (1985), India (1983), Australia (1981), Zambia (1979), the UK (1977), Jamaica (1975), Canada (1973) and Singapore (1971).

Malta has hosted several Commonwealth meetings in the past. This is the first time it is hosting a Heads of Government Meeting.

 

CNIS - the Commonwealth News and Information Service Issue 238, 8 June 2005

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