The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration and Ghana’s candidate for the position of the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey participated in a high-profile debate on the future of the Commonwealth alongside her counterparts from Lesotho and the Gambia on 11th August, 2024.
The event which was hosted by Chatham House, London in collaboration with the Commonwealth Foundation, and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Secretariat, provided a critical platform for the candidates to outline their vision to Commonwealth citizens and Civil Society Organisations .
During the debate, Hon. Ayorkor Botchwey highlighted her engagement with Commonwealth leaders and Civil Society, which had informed her understanding of the organisation’s evolving priorities. Her proposed agenda, shaped by broad consultations, includes promoting democracy and Commonwealth values, advancing trade and investment, empowering the youth through education and innovation, addressing climate change, and supporting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Small States.
Reflecting on her accomplishments in various leadership roles, Hon. Botchwey expressed her vision for the Commonwealth to spearhead efforts in democratic renewal, take bold action on climate change, and establish a development framework that fosters inclusive economic growth, social mobility, and robust social protection for all generations.
She also called on the Commonwealth to unite behind the candidate best positioned to garner trust, inspire confidence, and mobilise political and financial resources necessary for the Organisation’s future endeavours.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Kwabena Nyarko Abronoma
