CHOGM theme - consultation and co-operation

by Rupa Banduwardena

Sri Lanka claims the distinction of being the first country in this part of the globe to hold CHOGM. The theme of the Commonwealth is “consultation and co-operation” a noble principle of long lasting value. Some countries who were triumphant over alien domination who were reluctant to accept the unifying bond of allegiance to the Queen still wished to remain in the Commonwealth. According to Jawaharalal Nehru, “It is an Association that brought together, for frank discussion, without binding commitments, leaders from various parts of the earth.”

Until 1947 the Commonwealth was blessed with only five major states - Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. It is said that it is was in 1947 when India and Pakistan obtained full membership that CHOGM was looked upon as a multi racial Association. Ever since the concept of common allegiance was eradicated.

Today it is the “Commonwealth of Nations” and not the British Commonwealth, but all are united by an unbreakable link ie the Queen who is the head of the Commonwealth. Still the Queen is the unifying force and the tower of strength under the British flag.

Those living under the British flag led a life of peace and security with a steady cultural and economic progress.

Today, the Commonwealth is a formation of 54 countries based on the common factor of population compiled by Wikimedia Foundation in April 2013. The biggest is India, smallest is Nauru and Sri Lanka is listed as No.16. It is a great blessing that Sri Lanka has been selected as the venue for this year's CHOGM. The previous session of CHOGM was held in Australia and in 2009 it was held in Trinidad and Tobago.

Forum

The Commonwealth is a unique forum and it is no secret that all previous CHOGMs numbering 22 have produced excellent results. Each successive meeting has strengthened the Commonwealth.

Common problems affecting the member states are being discussed at these meetings and each country has benefited by it's frank discussions.

It is a well-known fact that all previous CHOGMs have made a great contribution in uniting it's members and had considerably helped the developing countries of the Commonwealth.

It is impossible, they say to gauge, the magnitude of the services rendered.

It is a pleasure to note that this will be treasured for generations to come and will serve as a source of inspiration to the future leaders.

It is for the good luck and good destiny of the motherland that this mammoth conference will be held in Sri Lanka with the entire country selflessly devoted to it's success, with hope and confidence.

The CHOGM well-known throughout the country will no doubt, portray how a country suffered so much, play a vital role in promoting it's success in every sphere.

It will also provide a wonderful opportunity for the world leaders to see for themselves the great progress. All development work undertaken not only in the North and East but also throughout the island, would impress them of an era of prosperity.

Having brought normalcy to the lives of the civilian population the commitment of the Government to reconstruction process is something to be admired and the landmark achievements of Sri Lanka in this sphere will definitely be lauded by the touring delegates.

The world's eyes will be widely opened to the post terrorism progress achieved after eliminating LTTE terrorism that put back the country's prosperity for three decades. This is only one aspect in brief showing the importance of the CHOGM.

Historic

CHOGM will also be an opportunity to project our historic legacy, culture and tradition which date back tover 2,500 years. Massive structures, impressive centres of culture and great irrigation systems in ancient cities reflecting our national heritage and glory would enhance prestige, stature and image of this paradise isle. These are landmarks of our national pride.

CHOGM would also build friendly ties creating wide opportunities for Sri Lankans to trek into new avenues offering them a vast range of benefits which are too numerous to put in black and white.

The modern trends of globalisation will be experienced, in a friendly atmosphere leading to a new revolution renaissance and a flourishing new era.

It is said that a good past of the human population will be represented in this esteemed gathering of world leaders.

Out of the seven billion global population, more than two billion people will be represented at CHOGM.

Due to President Mahinda Rajapaksa's commitment Sri Lanka has been fortunate to host the 23rd CHOGM and this pearl in the Indian Ocean will be blessed with the leadership of the Commonwealth for two years following the CHOGM.