A letter signed by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, who is the present chair-in-office of the Commonwealth, was yesterday distributed by The High Commission of Malta’s office in London to the present secretary-general, Donald C. McKinnon and various High Commission offices of member countries.

In the official letter, Dr Gonzi said that the candidature is further evidence of Malta’s commitment towards the Commonwealth and the important role of this organisation.

Dr Gonzi said that Dr Michael Frendo is presently occupying the presidency of the Commonwealth Ministers’ Action Group (CMAG), after he was chosen by the ministers who form part of this group to ensure that member countries are following the principles laid down in the Harare Commonwealth Declaration.

Dr Gonzi said that following the CHOGM of November 2005, which was held in Malta, Commonwealth secretary-general Don McKinnon had appointed Dr Frendo as president of the Steering Committee of Commonwealth Connects, Commonwealth Action Programme for the Digital Divide.

The election for the post of secretary-general will take place in Kampla, Uganda, in November this year and the elected person will take office in November 2008.