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The Commonwealth Exemplifies Unity Through Diversity

9 February 2005

HRH The Prince of Wales at the opening of the new Commonwealth Information Centre.

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales said the dynamism of the Commonwealth helps  improve the lives of ordinary people across the world.

Prince Charles was speaking  on the 7 February at the opening of the Commonwealth Information Centre in London, UK. He said that the Commonwealth "makes a real difference to real lives. It's not like those great political movements which can be summed up underneath slogans and driven forward under great flags. It is altogether more subtle, quieter, a more human body which exemplifies unity through diversity…by the sharing of good ideas and best practice across borders and across continents. It is informal, ad hoc, enterprising."

The Prince said that the Commonwealth works at many levels and across many boundaries. "It is a family of nations with all the closeness, and obviously all the complications that that implies. This new centre will serve to help more people to be aware of the good work of the Commonwealth. It should enable many more people to learn about this unique family and to engage on a very practical level with its programmes and with its ideals."

Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon said the Commonwealth makes a difference throughout the world through its linkages with other organisations, including civil society to promote development.

"We work on the basis that if we can help individual people in their lives, especially young people, we can make a difference," said Mr McKinnon.

The Secretary-General stated that the Commonwealth Information Centre will provide an opportunity for the international association to showcase its work. He said the Commonwealth remains committed in its efforts to adapt and be responsive to the changing needs of member countries. One of the central objectives of the Commonwealth, he said, was to reach out to the world and to get more people, especially young people, involved in the Commonwealth.

A new website aimed at teaching young people more about the Commonwealth was also launched by Prince Charles today. It can be accessed at http://www.youngcommonwealth.org/.

Computers located at the Information Centre provide access to a network of online resources on the Commonwealth. Visitors will be able to read more about the latest Commonwealth news and events, and access a full range of information through the Commonwealth Secretariat website at www. thecommonwealth.org. This website features the Commonwealth's work in promoting development, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, economic and political affairs, and education, health and gender equality.