Commonwealth's relevance in addressing modern issues discussed at CHOGM

 

The relevance of the Commonwealth in addressing the problems of modern times featured prominently in discussions underway at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Kigali Rwanda.

 

From the COVID-19 pandemic to one of the worst periods of inflation to hit the global community, world leaders have had a tumultuous two years. 

 

There have long been concerns about how small island developing states will endure, and questions, too, about what the more developed countries within the Commonwealth are doing to help. 

 

According to one speaker, the size of the economy of the Commonwealth is about $13 trillion. But the issue is that this is concentrated in only about five countries - the UK, Australia, Canada, Nigeria and India. 

 

He argued that for the Commonwealth to truly have a common future, this wealth must be shared across the member countries. 

 

It is expected that when the Heads of Government meet on June 24, issues such as bridging the financial gap, trade barriers and creating opportunities for vulnerable nations will be discussed. 

 

 

Jamaica's Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Kamina Johnson Smith continues her campaign for Commonwealth Secretary-General. 

 

Asked how she felt about her prospects, Mrs Johnson Smith said she was "feeling good so far". 

 

"We’re on the ground. The sands have not shifted so far as we're aware, but we're continuing to engage. We continue to do the work, we are not taking anything for granted, and of course, the best part of this is meeting even more people from across the Commonwealth and speaking about the great things that can be done if we work together," she told Radio Jamaica's Janella Precius, who is in Kigali.