On Thursday, June 24, the Commonwealth foreign ministers met face-toface for the first-time in nearly three years. This was ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, (CHOGM), in Kigali.
Ministers were able to have formal discussions about the CHOGM theme Delivering a Shared Future: Connecting Innovations, Transforming. They also focused on three topics.
The Rt Hon. Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland QC, said: “It is a source of great joy that we are finally back together, in person, at CHOGM – after so many years of change and challenge, and so much detailed planning.
“Since CHOGM 2018 in London, we have worked intensively to help member countries…responding to their needs, priorities and requests. We have combined technical assistance and advocacy at the highest level of the international system.
“This week, here in Kigali, we have a precious opportunity. To be closer, in spirit and in person, again. In a changing world, we need unity and purpose, drawn deep from the wells of Commonwealth history, values and potential, to achieve our shared goals and realise our potential.”
Ministers discussed new and changing challenges for ensuring peaceful, just, inclusive societies. They also discussed how the Commonwealth is addressing them now and in future.
They also considered multifaceted issues that relate to sustainable and inclusive developments such as climate, the environment and oceans and sustainable energy.
They discussed how member countries should address these complex issues with a special focus of the needs of smaller states and less developed countries.
The Ministers also looked at the devastating effects of the pandemic upon public health systems, trade and connectivity and how governments can create better systems capable of handling future crises.
Ministers were shown how the Commonwealth can improve health security and resilience, support trade systems and small states, as well as harness other opportunities for a sustainable, inclusive recovery after Covid-19.
The Ministers had the opportunity to hear from the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, and the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who presented their organisations’ perspectives and offered ideas for greater inter-organisational collaboration to tackle these matters.
The meeting results will inform the policy agenda of the gathering of heads government at CHOGM which will open on Friday, 26 June.
jkaruhanga@newtimesrwanda.com
Source: rnewtimes
