Malta will continue to hold a leading role within the Commonwealth after Foreign and European Affairs Minister Chris Fearne secured another two-year term as chair of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG).The decision was taken by the group’s member countries during Commonwealth meetings held in Antigua and Barbuda, extending Fearne’s leadership of the body responsible for safeguarding the organisation’s core democratic principles.CMAG plays a key role in promoting democracy, human rights, the rule of law and good governance across Commonwealth member states.Following his re-election, Fearne emphasised the importance of taking a more proactive approach to protecting these values, particularly as democratic institutions around the world face increasing challenges.He stressed that the group should not simply intervene when political crises emerge, but should also work towards preventing them through dialogue, cooperation and engagement between member countries.During Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) week, Fearne also participated in discussions focused on safeguarding democracy, alongside representatives from parliaments and civil society organisations.The discussions addressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions, improve transparency and ensure citizens have a meaningful say in decisions affecting their lives.Fearne also held several bilateral meetings with representatives of other Commonwealth nations during his visit, focusing on strengthening Malta’s diplomatic ties and exploring further opportunities for international cooperation.His re-election means Malta will retain the chairmanship of CMAG for another two years, maintaining its involvement in the Commonwealth’s efforts to uphold democratic standards and fundamental rights across its member countries.What do you make of this re-election?•