Message from President Hifikepunye Pohamba

TODAY, March 13 2006, we celebrate Commonwealth Day and, in doing so, Namibia’s membership of the Commonwealth family of nations.

It is 16 years since Namibia joined the Commonwealth. Today we renew our commitment to its shared values of tolerance, mutual respect and equality of sovereign states and to uphold its fundamental principles of democracy, human rights, the rule of law and sustainable socio-economic development.This year, we pay special attention to the virtues of health and vitality.We recognise that our nations are stronger when there is access to good food, clean water and healthy living conditions.It is in all our interests to work to provide the highest possible standards for all Commonwealth people.Membership of the Commonwealth enhances our reputation around the world as it brings a collective dimension to our global interests.We, in Namibia, feel much stronger knowing that our one voice has the support of 52 other nations.We know the Commonwealth can be a trusted partner in development and should forge and consolidate a style of global diplomacy, which uses the power of consensus to make multi-lateralism work.The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta last year reaffirmed our commitment to each other.As one of the leaders who attended CHOGM, I can say that our private discussions were candid and productive.CHOGM is one of the few forums where we can speak openly about the needs of our citizens.We may have distant partners but our collective ambitions have never been closer.The people of Namibia can feel confident that through our Commonwealth connections we are stronger.Our solidarity is our strength, our shared values, conventions and institutions provide the platform to build peace and deliver prosperity to all our people.So, in the spirit of solidarity, let us cherish this valuable partnership and celebrate Commonwealth day 2006.Today we renew our commitment to its shared values of tolerance, mutual respect and equality of sovereign states and to uphold its fundamental principles of democracy, human rights, the rule of law and sustainable socio-economic development.This year, we pay special attention to the virtues of health and vitality.We recognise that our nations are stronger when there is access to good food, clean water and healthy living conditions.It is in all our interests to work to provide the highest possible standards for all Commonwealth people.Membership of the Commonwealth enhances our reputation around the world as it brings a collective dimension to our global interests.We, in Namibia, feel much stronger knowing that our one voice has the support of 52 other nations.We know the Commonwealth can be a trusted partner in development and should forge and consolidate a style of global diplomacy, which uses the power of consensus to make multi-lateralism work.The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta last year reaffirmed our commitment to each other.As one of the leaders who attended CHOGM, I can say that our private discussions were candid and productive.CHOGM is one of the few forums where we can speak openly about the needs of our citizens.We may have distant partners but our collective ambitions have never been closer.The people of Namibia can feel confident that through our Commonwealth connections we are stronger.Our solidarity is our strength, our shared values, conventions and institutions provide the platform to build peace and deliver prosperity to all our people.So, in the spirit of solidarity, let us cherish this valuable partnership and celebrate Commonwealth day 2006.