Today is Commonwealth Day, a day once a year in which we celebrate being members of a unique global family and organisation.

The essence of the Commonwealth is in its fundamental values of mutual respect, tolerance and equality. It brings us together as individuals, groups, organisations, and governments.

Building on that foundation, we are driven by a determination to help each other create strong democracies that encourage respect for human rights - political, economic, social, cultural, and others. Together, Malta and the Commonwealth aspire to a just and honest government, supported by the rule of law. And we aim to create prosperity and economic opportunity for all.

To belong to the Commonwealth means to engage with the international community with one voice. Malta and 52 nations speaking in unison can send a powerful message to the rest of the world.

Last year, the Commonwealth's Heads of Government met in Malta to set out the direction and priorities for our organisation over the next few years. We agreed to continue to channel our work to promote democracy and development and to give priority to assisting those who are most vulnerable - those in developing countries and in small states. This year, global trade liberalisation will be one of our greatest challenges. We recognise that trade is one of the most potent ways of generating prosperity and eradicating poverty. We will also help bridge the digital divide that is holding back progress by promoting new technology.

Also in Malta were over 200 different organisations and over 500 people representing doctors, dentists, businessmen and women, lawyers and others, all of whom believe in the value of the Commonwealth. Confidence in the Commonwealth is running high as the number of civil society organisations grows and the Commonwealth Youth Programme continues to expand.

This year the Commonwealth Day theme is Health And Vitality: The Commonwealth Challenge. In a year in which our finest athletes, at the peak of their physical abilities, will be competing at the 18th Commonwealth Games, it is appropriate that we should devote attention to good health for all.

Malta was a shining star in the Commonwealth this year, as our host in November, and in various other meetings in the lead-up to Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). I look forward to working closely with the Prime Minister, Lawrence Gonzi, who is now the Chair-in-Office until the next CHOGM in 2007 in Uganda.

Commonwealth interests are our shared interests. Every step forward that Malta takes to make a difference is an advance for us all. That is good grounds for celebration.

Quotable quote

by Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon
"Health and Vitality - this is the Commonwealth Challenge. We are reminded that people all over the world should have access to good food, clean water and a place to live that is free of disease. Of course, in reality, not everyone does.

"Commonwealth countries are working together to make a difference. Every day our members share their skills and help enhance peoples' lives. Our experts help educate young people about HIV/AIDS; they work with medical staff to improve healthcare systems everywhere; and, of course, devise practical solutions to help manage the migration of doctors and nurses from the very countries that need them most.

"It is timely that we devote attention to good health this year, especially as our finest athletes at the peak of their physical abilities, will compete at the 18th Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia. We wish them good luck, as we continue in our efforts to create a healthy world"

Healthy living

All Commonwealth citizens should expect to live in good health throughout their lives. A healthy person has the energy and vitality to enjoy a range of opportunities and experiences, and achieve his or her potential.

Healthy people should have:
Health care - a good health care system targets everybody; this includes immunisation programmes, regular medical check-ups, community clinics and health visits, maternal and infant health care, and special care for the elderly.

Clean water - having clean water to drink and to cook with is vital to prevent severe illnesses and even death; many communities boil or filter water if they are unsure whether it is safe to drink.

Sport and exercise - regular exercise, such as playing games and taking part in sport, builds fitness and a strong body - it is a good way to meet and make friends, too.

Hygienic habits and clean environments - washing hands before eating and using clean utensils ensures that nothing contaminated is ingested; and bathing often and keeping the house, classroom, and village or town clean prevents bacteria from multiplying and infecting the community.

Balanced diets - often consisting of fruit, vegetables, carbohydrates and protein.

Millions of people in the world do not have access to the good food, health care and living conditions necessary to remain healthy. Commonwealth countries are working together to ensure all people can enjoy good health.

Mr McKinnon is Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.