Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma this morning launched the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to be held in Malta next November. The theme will be The Commonwealth - adding global value.

The main events will take place against a backdrop of Malta's historical locations including Fort St Angelo.

Addressing high commissioners from a host of Commonwealth countries at the iconic Gardjola Garden in Senglea, Prime Minister Muscat spoke about the need for the organisation to reform or risk becoming irrelevant.

Over the past months Malta shared ideas with other Commonwealth countries on how to make this event truly remarkable, he said.

Dr Muscat noted that this will be an opportunity for leaders to discuss issues and best practices, as well as common concerns, ideas and ambitions which affect the lives of millions.

Mr Sharma praised Malta's leadership on "exceptional" ideas and practical action for small states. A small country could still add global value, he remarked.

CHOGM is held every two years and brings together leaders from 53 states, home to 2.2 billion citizens, of whom 60 per cent are below the age of 30.

Malta last hosted the summit in 2005.

A series of parallel events will also be held in the week leading up to the CHOGM including fora on business, youths, civil society and for the first time on women.