Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has called for enhanced cooperation among member states in response to recent global trade upheavals.
Speaking at the 2025 Commonwealth Trade & Investment Summit held at Mansion House in London on April 7, Ayorkor Botchwey stressed that newly imposed global tariffs have shaken markets and exposed vulnerabilities, particularly for Commonwealth nations.
“The sweeping tariffs implemented last week shook markets around the world. Some target Commonwealth countries directly. All of us are affected. This is very far from business as usual. And business as usual wasn’t working for the Commonwealth,” she said.
Ms. Botchwey noted that the current challenges present an opportunity for the Commonwealth to assert its relevance as a unifying force in an increasingly divided global trade landscape.
“In a time of fragmentation, we offer connection. Amid uncertainty, we offer trust. When others raise barriers, we build bridges,” she added, highlighting the unique value of Commonwealth collaboration in navigating the shifting economic terrain.
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