Air Malta, the national airline, has been named the official airline for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting being held in Malta next month.

As the official airline, Air Malta will be transporting a large number of delegates and media representatives who will be in Malta for the event.

Air Malta chairman Lawrence Zammit said the national airline has always been at the forefront in supporting the country and its tourism industry throughout the years. He said the airline has always supported the country’s most important events and will continue to do so, especially during such an important event as CHOGM. All Air Malta planes will carry the official CHOGM logo.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi thanked the airline for recognising the importance of this event, especially to Malta since it will be attracting lots of coverage from around the world.

Every two years, the 53 Commonwealth leaders meet in different Commonwealth countries to discuss matters of common interest and promote initiatives to benefit the Commonwealth’s diverse membership. The CHOGM meeting will be held in Malta between 25 and 27 November.

The theme Malta has chosen concerns the digital divide since developing countries such as the majority of the Commonwealth member states have to invest heavily in information and communication technology if they are to develop further. The slogan agreed for CHOGM 2005 is Networking the Commonwealth for Development.

Dr Gonzi said CHOGM 2005 will be of great significance since Malta will be providing a unique backdrop for constructive and forward-looking discussions. He said Air Malta has agreed to contribute in a concrete way as it has always done, even when faced with difficulties and challenges.