Politique
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British Queen Elizabeth II, also the head of state of other 15 Commonwealth realms, signed the Commonwealth Charter in central London on Monday.
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The Queen said the Charter "represents a significant milestone as the Commonwealth continues its journey of development and renewal" at the Commonwealth Reception on Monday evening before putting down her signature.
The Commonwealth Charter was consisted of statements on 16 aspects: Democracy, Human rights, International peace and security, Tolerance, respect and understanding, Freedom of expression, Separation of powers, Rule of law, Good governance, Sustainable development, Protecting the environment, Access to health, education, food and shelter, Gender equality, Importance of young people in the commonwealth, Recognition of the needs of small states, Recognition of the needs of vulnerable states, The role of civil society.
The six-page Charter, agreed by all 54 Commonwealth Heads of Government in December last year, was seen by the British government as an important outcome of the modernization process and a milestone for the Commonwealth.
"For the first time in its 64 year history, the Commonwealth has a single document setting out the core values of the organization and the aspiration of its members," British Foreign Secretary William Hague said in a written statement to Parliament on the Commonwealth Charter.
"A strong Commonwealth will help us promote UK objectives of democracy and human rights, good governance and, in turn, the future prosperity of all its members," Hague said.
"Strong, clear values are crucial to the future credibility and success of the Commonwealth," he added.
Over the past two years, Britian has played a leading role in efforts to strengthen and reform the Commonwealth to ensure it remains relevant, fulfils its potential and is effective in the future.
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