A new report has been released suggesting that the Commonwealth should be transformed into a trade and security bloc and consider inviting Ukraine to join. The report, supported by former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Australia’s ex-Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, has gained cross-party support in the UK Parliament.
According to exclusive polling, a majority of UK adults believe that the Commonwealth should work towards reducing trade barriers among its members. Additionally, nearly half of UK and Australian adults support the idea of Ukraine submitting a membership application to join the Commonwealth. This support for Ukraine’s membership extends to countries like Malaysia, Nigeria, and India.
The proposal to include Ukraine in the Commonwealth comes at a crucial time as the country faces ongoing conflicts with Russia and seeks membership in international organizations like the EU and NATO. The report also recommends the establishment of a new Commonwealth Trade and Investment Commission, a special role for Prince William to champion environmental causes, and the creation of a Security and Defense Cooperation Forum.
Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper emphasized the strategic potential of the Commonwealth in fostering stronger trade relationships and leveraging existing linguistic and administrative commonalities. He highlighted the importance of recognizing the Commonwealth as a valuable asset for the UK and other friendly nations.
The report has garnered support from both Tory and Labour MPs, who believe that a confident and self-assured Britain should play a central role in the Commonwealth. With the upcoming Commonwealth heads of government meeting in Samoa, there is a significant opportunity for the UK to outline an ambitious vision for the organization and assert its presence on the international stage.
In addition to the recommendations outlined in the report, there is a growing consensus among politicians and experts that expanding the Commonwealth’s membership to include countries in the Middle East and North Africa region could further enhance its influence and reach. By embracing strategic expansion and fostering stronger ties among its members, the Commonwealth has the potential to become a more impactful and relevant international organization in the future.
