The Commonwealth has marked Togo’s entry with a special flag-raising ceremony at Marlborough House, London.
A special flag-raising ceremony was held on 20 October in the presence of the Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General, Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo, and the President of the Togolese Republic, Faure Gnassingbé.
“Togo’s journey into the Commonwealth has been a long time in the making. We walked the journey for many years, as the Commonwealth provided guidance to Togo’s efforts and commitments to embody the values of the Commonwealth Charter,” said Dr. Suddhoo in his welcoming remarks.
“Togo has shown commitment to meeting institutional and governance reforms. The Government of Togo has demonstrated clear action in developing its economy and infrastructure; in providing a conducive business climate and stability to attract tourism and investment.
“Today, we welcome [Togo] into our family home, where we work every day to deepen our bonds and abilities to conquer the challenges we face – together. Welcome to a special group of nations which are committed to doing their best to uphold shared values and to help one another.
“Long live Togo and Long Live the Commonwealth!”
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“It is my great pleasure to address this honourable audience on this highly symbolic occasion and to express the joy and pride of the people of Togo as we gather here today to raise our flag among those of the great Commonwealth of Nations family,” added President Gnassingbé.
“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, I would like to solemnly ask each one of you to bear witness to Togo’s renewed pledge to the core values of peace, democracy, and development, which are the core values of the family we are joining.
“Our stepping into the Commonwealth family is an incredible booster towards progressing together and leaving no one behind.
“It is my wish that the new dawn we are setting today will unveil an era of fruitful cooperation, economic growth, sustainable development as well as social and cultural fulfilment for all of us.”
The flag of Togo was then ceremoniously raised on the roof of Marlborough House to the tune of Togo’s national anthem.
By joining the Commonwealth, Togo’s Embassy in London now officially becomes a High Commission. To mark the occasion, a plaque commemorating the move was unveiled.
