Commonwealth Secretary-General outlines strategy to enhance trade, investment
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, has outlined a three-pronged approach to maximise the value of trade and investment among investors, enterprises and citizens within the Commonwealth.
In her first external statement since assuming office, Ms Botchway said trade was a central priority under her leadership.
She explained that her strategy was to make trade inclusive, innovative and investable to build resilient economies amid recent tariff increments affecting global markets.
Event
The Secretary-General was speaking at this year’s Commonwealth Trade and Investment summit at the Mansion House, London, last Monday.
That two-day event was organised by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC).
The annual summit served as a platform for the Commonwealth business community to advance discussions on trade and investment with heads of government, senior ministers and representatives from Commonwealth governments.
It featured discussions between business leaders and government officials, including some critical issues affecting trade and investment within the Commonwealth, among others.
Participants were also given the chance to engage in informal networking and one-to-one meetings to foster connections.
It was attended by Commonwealth heads of government, ministers, and leaders from multilateral and regional institutions, as well as captains of business from various sectors.
Inclusiveness
To ensure inclusiveness, the Secretary-General said that her office would work with all Commonwealth nations, including small states, landlocked countries and underrepresented businesses to participate meaningfully in global markets.
On innovation, she said she planned to embrace digital trade, harmonise regulations and support entrepreneurs, especially women and young people, to drive the economy of the future.
Additionally, Ms Botchway said she intended to strengthen partnerships, unlock blended finance and channel capital to areas that would have the greatest impact.
“We intend to tackle trade barriers, strengthen digital inclusion, support small businesses, and open investment opportunities in key sectors—from infrastructure and agriculture to energy transition and e-commerce.
“That is how we bridge the gap between policy and action—and this is how we will deliver,” she added.
Impact of tariffs
Ms Botchway further said that the sweeping tariffs implemented last week shook markets around the world, with some targeting Commonwealth countries directly.
Describing the situation as very far from business as usual, she expressed her commitment to making trade and investment a central part of the Commonwealth’s renewal.
The Secretary-General added that she was ready to work with all stakeholders to maximise the value of trade and investment for all.
“It underlines why Commonwealth cooperation on trade has never been more urgent or more valuable.
“Because in a time of fragmentation, we offer connection.
Amid uncertainty, we offer trust.
When others raise barriers, we build bridges,” she said.
