Today (11 March) people across the world celebrate Commonwealth Day as the family of 53 nations enters its 70th year.
To mark the occasion, the Foreign Secretary and the Minister of State for the Commonwealth, Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, attended a service at Westminster Abbey alongside Her Majesty The Queen, senior members of the Royal family, representatives of all 53 Commonwealth countries, schoolchildren, performers and athletes.
Minister of State for the Commonwealth, Lord Tariq Ahmad, of Wimbledon said:
The UK has an unbreakable bond with the Commonwealth; a unique network bound together with the ties between people, common values and shared history.
Our common vision for the 2.4 billion people who make up this family of 53 nations is the opportunity for all citizens to thrive regardless of race, religion, gender or any other status.
As Chair-in-Office of the Commonwealth, the UK is working with our partners to tackle the great challenges of our time: to ensure quality education for all, to protect our oceans, tackle malaria and boost international trade.
Commonwealth Day celebrations are being held across the country. Many will recognise the huge contribution of the Commonwealth diaspora to the rich fabric of the UK: from Ministers to doctors and nurses, to business people, athletes, and teachers.
Last year's Commonwealth summit brought together representatives from all 53 countries where Commonwealth Leaders made commitments to build a fairer, more prosperous, more sustainable future for its 2.4 billion citizens, 60% of whom are under 30.
