The Foreign Secretary said:
Commonwealth Day is an opportunity for the UK to reflect, not only on the shared history and values of the Commonwealth, but on its continuing significance today and into the future. It is that shared and prosperous future that this year’s theme of ‘a young Commonwealth’ proudly underlines.
This year, we pay tribute to the Commonwealth’s young people. Some 60 per cent of the Commonwealth’s total population are under the age of 30. Their generation will develop economies, promote peace and lead the Commonwealth to thrive into the 21st century. They will build our collective future.
In 2015, as we look forward to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Malta, we know that shared values and goals are the strongest foundation for each of the Commonwealth’s 53 members. Our young people will play a vital role at the very heart of democracy and it is right that we recognise their contribution, and their potential.
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