Statement by Foreign Affairs Minister on Commonwealth Day

March 11, 2019 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Together with 52 other countries from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Americas, the Pacific and Europe, Canada is a proud and active member of the Commonwealth.

“When the Commonwealth was born on this day 70 years ago, few would have foreseen the global community it represents today. With an incredible breadth of cultures, faiths, languages, backgrounds and beliefs, the Commonwealth now represents over 2.4 billion people and the potential for a brighter future when we tackle challenges together.

“Our family of nations is founded in its support for democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Today, Canada’s resolve to protect and promote these principles is as strong as ever.

“Building on last year’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, Canada is advancing key issues discussed in London [United Kingdom]. Whether it is gender equality and women’s empowerment, fighting climate change and protecting our oceans, LGBT rights or youth opportunity, we have made and will continue to make important progress.

“As we look to the future, Canada will work alongside its Commonwealth partners to uphold our shared values and create a more just and prosperous future for all.”