VIEW FROM THE CHAIR
COMMONWEALTH OBSERVANCE DAY SPEECH
This is a speech given by Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, MP at the Observance of Commonwealth Day at Westminster Abbey, London on 9 March, 2015.
It is indeed a great honour and very rare privilege for me to be here this afternoon, before this august gathering, as the Speaker of Bangladesh Parliament and Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association,
joining the celebration of the Commonwealth Observance Day. The Commonwealth, a family of nations, stands the test of time in upholding the cherished values of democracy, rule of law, human rights and sustainable development. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), a unique platform of premier representative institutions of Commonwealth countries, plays an instrumental role in bringing the voices of the people of Commonwealth
Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee
to the centre of discourse of democracy and development. The CPA is a forum that works with more than 175 member- parliaments in nine regions to bring in convergence of diverse perspectives, which is the beauty and strength of Commonwealth. It allows all members an equal voice, ensuring greater inclusiveness. The theme of the year, ‘A Young Commonwealth’, resonates with a commitment to build future leaders. It acknowledges a promise to mobilize resources of member countries for providing best opportunities for young people. ‘A Young Commonwealth’ ushers prospects, offers a promising future and shines as a beacon of hope for a better tomorrow.
Commonwealth Day visitors take a trip on the London Eye ferris wheel
6 | The Parliamentarian | 2015: Issue One
‘A Young Commonwealth’ denotes that it is always prepared to meet new challenges with innovative responses. It is at all times open to embrace ideas and timely initiatives that mark new beginnings and opportunities for the welfare of its people. Echoing the theme, CPA works to empower young parliamentarians by creating space for them to air their issues. It believes that the ‘digital natives’ of
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