OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 03/10/13 -- The 54 member nations of the Commonwealth are bound together by history, trade and shared values. Since it began in 1975, Commonwealth Day has served as an occasion to celebrate these bonds, and every year one theme in particular has been singled out for special consideration.

The theme of the 2013 Commonwealth Day, "Opportunity through Enterprise," highlights one of today's most valuable shared resources: the innovative thinking and enterprising spirit that sow a great deal of the wealth, on which our countries depend. From big business to small rural communities, government to civil society, we are unlocking opportunities for people from all walks of life.

This year, we also mark the creation of the Charter of the Commonwealth, which, for the first time in one accessible document, brings together the values and aspirations that unite us. Democracy, human rights, the rule of law, fundamental freedoms, peace, prosperity-we have all expressed our desire and our commitment to these ideals. It is now our duty, as members of the Commonwealth, to improve the lives of our people, and to make ours a smarter, more caring world.

May the spirit of Commonwealth Day imbue us with a feeling of joy and togetherness. I wish you all a prosperous year, filled with new and exciting opportunities.

David Johnston

Commonwealth Day is celebrated on March 11, 2013.

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