Today marks #CommonwealthDay2025, a celebration filled with activities throughout The Commonwealth. This annual event is observed by the 56 member countries spanning Africa, Asia, the Americas, the Pacific, and Europe. The Commonwealth community stands as a unique and powerful alliance. In these uncertain times, it serves as a stabilising force, and on Commonwealth Day, we should reaffirm our commitment to enhancing its strength.
This year also commemorates 80 years since the end of World War II, honouring the over 1.5 million courageous men and women from across the Commonwealth who served. We will always remember their sacrifices, as they fought alongside Britain and our allies to vanquish tyranny.
It was great to also be represented earlier today by my team at the Commonwealth Day event at Walsall Council with the Mayor of Walsall. The theme for Commonwealth Day 2025 is ‘Together We Thrive.’ This theme celebrates the enduring spirit of the member countries, united by the shared values outlined in the Commonwealth Charter.