Queen to mark Commonwealth's 60th anniversary

London, Mar 9 (ANI): The Queen will mark the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth on Monday, themed as 'serving a new generation' and will highlight the importance of participation of the young generation for its future.

High Commissioners from 53 member nations are also expected to take part in the celebrations.

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According to The Telegraph, the Queen, in her annual Commonwealth Day message, will state the institution's "global perspective" and its attempts to do its best "to meet people's most pressing needs."

The Queen's address will form a part of the annual Observance of Commonwealth Day at Westminster Abbey this afternoon attended by the Duke of Edinburgh and a host of dignitaries.

The Sovereign, who is head of the Commonwealth, will state in her pre-recorded message, "We can rightly celebrate the fact that the founding members' vision of the future has become a reality."

She will add: "Our beliefs in freedom, democracy and human rights; equality and equity; development and prosperity mean as much today as they did more than half a century ago...But as we reflect upon our long association, we should recognise the challenges that lie ahead."

Nearly a billion people of the present Commonwealth are under 25 years of age.

Putting emphasis on youth's role in the institution, the Queen would say, "These are the people that this association must continue to serve in the future. It is they who can help shape the Commonwealth of today, and whose children will inherit the Commonwealth of tomorrow."

She will go on to say: "The call that brought the Commonwealth together in 1949 remains the same today...As the Commonwealth celebrates its 60th birthday, its governments, communities and we as individuals should welcome that achievement."

The modern Commonwealth was formed in 1949 when eight countries - Australia, Britain, Ceylon, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa and Canada - signed the Declaration of London after a six-day conference. (ANI)