From the desk of the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC

"I greet you from the Kingdom of Tonga, where I am attending the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.  As we lead up to CHOGM in October, we continue to implement mandates while setting a course for the future.

One important milestone was the signing of an MOU with the Government of Azerbaijan, who will be hosting COP29 in November.  Climate considerations and support for our small states are never far from my mind.

But the highlight of the month must have been an engagement with young people across the Commonwealth on International Youth Day. We had a full day of events at Marlborough House, complemented by a six-hour live broadcast which was seen around the world, thanks to our partnership with the Khalili Foundation and Peace One Day.

Until next time,
The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC
Commonwealth Secretary-General