Prime Minister Samuel Hinds Monday evening graced with his presence the exhibition and reception held at the Umana Yana, Kingston,  another event to mark Commonwealth Day. The Prime Minister joined Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran, Deputy Speaker Clarissa Riehl, and other Members of Parliament to celebrate the occasion.
There was an array of cuisine, and exhibits from 10 Commonwealth countries –   Guyana, Fiji, Singapore, Somalia, Jamaica, Canada, Malta,The United Kingdom, India and Tanzania.
Ramkarran, Chairman of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Guyana, said the observance of Commonwealth Day seeks to provide member countries with an occasion for reflection and a renewed energy towards the reaffirmation of shared ideas and values.
He noted the theme of Commonwealth Day 2011, “Women as agents of change”, is aimed at highlighting the importance of women and girls today.
“Women and girls need to be included at all levels of decision making, ensuring their needs are properly met,” he said.
He explained that the number of bills passed in the National Assembly caters for the protection of women and men alike.
The evening’s activity sought to highlight the diversity of the Commonwealth family.
Deputy Speaker Riehl read the message from Her Majesty the Queen, who is  Head of the Commonwealth.
After viewing the exhibition, the Prime Minister along with other Members of Parliament and members of the Diplomatic Corps interacted.
Commonwealth Day is observed annually on the second Monday of March to commemorate the Commonwealth of Nations, a union of 54 countries that once were part of the British Empire.  (GINA)