Africa-Press – Namibia. HIGH commissioners, ambassadors and parliamentarians gathered at the Parliament on Monday to commemorate Commonwealth Day under the theme “Forging a Sustainable and Peaceful Common Future”.
This marks the first Commonwealth Day since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, which also makes it the first Commonwealth Day that was presided over by King Charles III as Head of the Commonwealth. It also marks the tenth anniversary of the signing of the Commonwealth Charter, which was signed by the late Queen Elizabeth II on 11 March 2013.
The Dean of the Commonwealth Mission in Namibia and Malaysian High Commissioner, Hishamuddin Ibrahim, explained that the charter outlines the values of Commonwealth nations and the commitment of members to equality, democracy and good governance. He added that the Commonwealth Charter also reflects the importance of the youth and recognises the needs of small and vulnerable states.
King Charles III’s speech – which was delivered on his behalf by the Chairperson of the National Council, Lucas Muha – also highlighted the importance of the Commonwealth Charter.
“This week marks the tenth anniversary of the Charter of the Commonwealth, which gives expression to our defining values – peace and justice; tolerance, respect and solidarity; care for our environment and for the most vulnerable among us. These are not simply ideals. In each lies an imperative to act and to make a practical difference in the lives of the 2,6 billion people who call the Commonwealth home,” King Charles III said.
He said that the potential of Commonwealth citizens is more than equal to the challenges that member states face. In this regard, he added that the Commonwealth can play an indispensable role in addressing issues related to climate change, biodiversity loss, youth opportunities, education, global health and economic cooperation.
“The Commonwealth has an incredible opportunity and responsibility to create a genuinely durable future – one that offers the kind of prosperity that is in harmony with nature and that will also secure our unique and only planet for generations to come,” King Charles III added.
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