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Minister Chris Fearne Appointed Chair Of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group

Minister Chris Fearne Appointed Chair Of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group
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Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Chris Fearne has been appointed Chair of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), the ministerial body responsible for overseeing member states' commitment to the values and principles set out in the Commonwealth Charter, including democracy, the rule of law, good governance and respect for human rights.

In his capacity as Chair, Minister Fearne presided over the 73rd meeting of the CMAG, during which ministers discussed political developments in a number of Commonwealth member states, with particular attention given to threats to democracy and the rule of law.

The meeting also examined the steps required to further strengthen the values and principles of the Commonwealth Charter across its member states.

Prior to the meeting, Minister Fearne held talks with the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Honourable Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey. Discussions focused on how the Commonwealth can continue to strengthen its role in supporting its 56 member states in reinforcing the rule of law, democratic institutions and good governance.

Preparations for the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), to be held in St John's, Antigua and Barbuda, were also discussed.

Minister Fearne said: "The Commonwealth remains a unique platform that brings together countries from every region of the world through shared values and a common commitment to the Commonwealth Charter. It is a privilege for Malta to continue chairing the CMAG at a time when democracy, the rule of law and democratic institutions are facing new challenges. Cooperation and dialogue remain our strongest tools for reinforcing these principles and building a more stable and prosperous future for all member states."

Minister Fearne reaffirmed Malta's commitment to continuing its active contribution within the Commonwealth and to working closely with the Secretariat and member states to strengthen the implementation of the Commonwealth Charter and promote peace, stability and sustainable development.

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