 |
welcomed participants to the 2007 Commonwealth People’s Forum (CPF). He
said that the Commonwealth is unique among ultilateral organisations as it has a separate
intergovernmental body, the Commonwealth Foundation, established specifically to support
and strengthen civil society’s work in the Commonwealth. He highlighted that the
Commonwealth’s commitment to civil society is nowhere more evident than at the CPF
which is the biggest civil society event on the Commonwealth calendar. Underscoring the
objectives of the CPF, he stressed the importance of learning from each other, and
influencing the outcomes of the CHOGM to ensure that they reflect the views of
Commonwealth citizens. On the CPF theme ‘Realising People’s Potential’, he said
development cannot succeed unless it is fuelled by a well-educated workforce, healthy and
well-nourished families, and institutions that ensure respect for human rights and the rule of
law. Regarding the issue of how the CPF influences the official CHOGM outcomes, he said
the CPF is a place for swapping ideas and views, a place to influence and to be influenced.
It’s a place to open our minds to new ideas, a place for creativity and partnership. |
