Countries united in their desire to work together in pursuit of peace, freedom and progress
“Seventy years ago, the Commonwealth of Nations had eight members. These countries were united in their desire to work together in pursuit of peace, freedom and progress. Since then, the Commonwealth’s membership has grown to 53 countries, encompassing nearly a third of the world’s population.
“To celebrate the Commonwealth’s 70th anniversary, I am delighted that all 53 member states agreed an affirmation of the Commonwealth, reaffirming their commitment to the core values and principles of the Commonwealth Charter, celebrating the successes of the last seven decades, and looking forward to ambitious achievements in the future.
“As well as celebrating the Commonwealth’s 70th anniversary, at the 19th meeting of Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers at Marlborough House on 10 July, we reviewed progress made since last year’s Heads of Government Meeting in London, made progress towards governance reform, and looked ahead to next year’s meeting in Rwanda.
“The Commonwealth plays a unique role in the world, and we will continue to work within it towards a more secure, prosperous, fair and sustainable future.”
Lord Ahmad, Minister of State for the Commonwealth
Foreign & Commonwealth Office, UK
