PRIME MINISTER
STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER, THE HON P J KEATING, MP
COMMONWEALTH DAY
Commonwealth Day is an occasion for reflection on the
continuing international relevance of the Commonwealth of
Nations. The strength and durability of the Commonwealth lies in its
diversity and. size 50 countries representing a quarter of
the world's population together with mutual respect for
each other's national sovereignty, traditions and culture.
These characteristics have enabled the Commonwealth to
remain relevant to its member countries in rapidly changing
times. In keeping with the pace of developments on the
international scene brought about through the collapse of
communism and resurgence of democracy, the Commonwealth
itself has undergone significant change.
The Heads of Government meeting in Harare last October
marked a turning point as leaders sought to build on
Commonwealth achievements in working for an end to apartheid
and the establishment of a free, democratic and non-racial
South Africa. Like other countries represented at Harare,
Australia also pledged to work with renewed vigour for the
protection and promotion of democracy and the rule of law,
the independence of the judiciary, just and honest
government and fundamental human rights. This presents a
challenging agenda for the 1990s, but it is one which the
Commonwealth is well qualified to address.
9 MARCH 1992
Keating, Paul
Period of Service: 20/12/1991 - 11/03/1996
Find more information on Keating, Paul on the:
Release Date:
09/03/1992
Release Type:
Media Release
Transcript ID:
8445
Document:
00008445.pdf
1 Page(s)
Released by:
- Keating, Paul John
STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER, THE HON P J KEATING, MP COMMONWEALTH DAY
8445