On Monday 10th March, a Commonwealth Flag Raising was held at County Hall, Exeter, to mark Commonwealth Day.
Commonwealth Day is celebrated by the Commonwealth of Nations, which span across Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific. It is a day that recognises the shared values and goals of the member countries, and to celebrate the diversity and unity of these nations. It marks the shared history of the independent member states which make up the Commonwealth.
His Majesty’s Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, Rear Admiral Chris Snow CBE DL (pictured far right), was in attendance on behalf of The King. Members of Devon County Council also took part, including Cllr James McInnes (Leader of Devon County Council), Cllr John Hart (Chair of Devon County Council), Donna Manson (Chief Executive of Devon County Council), and other members of staff.
Speaking on Commonwealth Day, HM The King has said:
“In these uncertain times, where it is all too easy to believe that our differences are problems instead of a source of strength and an opportunity for learning, the Commonwealth’s remarkable collection of nations and peoples come together in the spirit of support and crucially, friendship.
The Commonwealth’s ability to bring together people from all over the world has stood the test of time and remains as ever-important today.”
The flags of all 56 member states will be flown from Parliament Square, and from the buildings of 10 Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament and other government departments across Westminster.