Commonwealth leaders have pledged to counter extremism and terrorism through strong national, regional and international action and co-operation.

In a statement published following the conclusion of the CHOGM 2015 summit, Commonwealth leaders said the threat of terrorism should not be associated with any particular religion, race, nationality or ethnicity.

“We renewed our commitment to implement national strategies to counter threats and to support each other. We agreed that it is imperative to counter the use of the internet by extremist groups to radicalise and recruit fighters,” the leaders said. 

Commonwealth leader recognised migration as a source of potential in the Commonwealth.

"Migration, if properly harnessed and managed, can deliver economic and social benefits which improve the resilience and prosperity of Commonwealth member states. We underlined the importance of safe, orderly and regular migration and of ensuring full respect for human rights and the humane treatment of all migrants as well as refugees and displaced persons. We agreed to enhance national and international efforts to address the causes of irregular migration," the leaders said.

Addressing the final CHOGM press conference, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said convergence and near unanimity on a very focussed statement on climate change puts the possibility of success at the upcoming climate change talks in Paris in better shape.

Asked about the chance of a legally binding treaty emerging from the Paris talks, Dr Muscat said the presence of key players such as the United States is vital for an agreement to be reached.

The Prime Minister said that from experience one should wait for negotiations to get under way in order to obtain a “direct feed” of what is being discussed or proposed. 

On terrorism, Dr Muscat said there is recognition that individual Commonwealth countries need help in fighting radicalisation.

A grass root approach is needed, with the focus being on education and jobs for youth rather than allowing them to be exposed to radicalisation, he said.  

John Draani Mahama, the President of Ghana, said Commonwealth leaders will now be flying to Paris with a common consensus on climate change.

Leaders have agreed on cooperating against common threats like terrorism and climate change, Mr Mahama said. 

Freundel Stuart, the Prime Minister of Barbados, said the meeting in Malta reinforced the relevance of the Commonwealth.

Commitments to common values such as the rule of law, democratic principles, the promotion of dignity and the worth of human beings have all been reinforced, he said.