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Commonwealth Secretariat press release

Commonwealth is also about trade and investment, stresses Secretary-General

18 September 2000

Promoting trade and investment and helping member countries compete in the global economy are also key objectives for the Commonwealth, Commonwealth Secretary-General Mr Don McKinnon said in a keynote address at the opening of the Commonwealth Business Forum in London today. The forum takes place on the eve of the Commonwealth Finance Ministers Meeting in Malta (19-21 Sept) and has for its theme, Globalisation: Policies, Strategies and Partnerships. 

"The dismantling of trade barriers and the increased globalisation of finance, goods and services, together with advances in information technology have revolutionised the way governments [and the business world] form policies, strategise and decide on partnerships," said Mr McKinnon to an audience of Commonwealth ministers, High Commissioners and business leaders. Participants were also encouraged to reflect on how they would like to see the Commonwealth play a greater role in promoting a positive trade and investment environment and developing relevant business strategies within its member countries.

Mr McKinnon underlined the importance of good governance and democratic practices as a spur for real economic development, stating that the Commonwealth's work in this field also helps to create a more positive trading and investment environment.

Finally, he appealed to the business community to make use of this Forum and other networking opportunities to provide feedback to governments and to create and consolidate private-public partnerships.

The meeting continues until 20 September. Featured speakers include Prime Minister Owen Arthur of Barbados, Mr Narayana Murthy, CEO of Infosys Technologies, India, and finance ministers from several Commonwealth countries.

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