News & Events

Bradford has officially unveiled the UK’s only Commonwealth War Memorial outside London in a moving ceremony at the War Memorial Gardens in the city centre. The monument honours the service and sacrifice of soldiers from Commonwealth nations who fought in World War I and World War II.

The memorial, a project by Bradford-based charity SHAPE-UK Ltd, was first proposed in 2021 following a review by Bradford Council of local statues and memorials. Wednesday’s unveiling was led by Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Bev Mullaney, with Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire Ed Anderson, Bishop of Bradford Toby Howarth, and local veterans also present. The tribute lists Commonwealth countries involved in the wars and includes symbols representing their diverse religious backgrounds.

A large crowd attended to pay respects, and families of Commonwealth veterans noted the memorial was “long overdue.” Among the attendees was a 102-year-old Pakistani war veteran who shared memories of his service and emphasized the deep historical contributions of Black and Asian soldiers.

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Remembrance Day, also known as Poppy Day, is observed across Commonwealth countries to honour the brave members of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives in service. Celebrated annually since the end of the First World War, Remembrance Day uses the red poppy as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and tribute to fallen soldiers.

The poppy’s use as a wartime symbol dates back to the early 19th century during the Napoleonic campaigns when bright red poppies bloomed across fields following battles. This symbolic flower gained renewed meaning after the First World War, inspiring Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae to write the now-famous poem “In Flanders Fields.” Moved by the poem, American teacher Moina Michael pledged to wear a poppy as a symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers. The movement quickly spread internationally when Madame Guerin of France began distributing handmade poppies to raise funds for war orphans. By 1921, the Great War Veterans’ Association (now the Royal Canadian Legion) officially adopted the poppy as the Flower of Remembrance.

Each year, people wear the red poppy from the last Friday in October until Remembrance Day on November 11. The poppy reminds us of the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of those who served in the armed forces, allowing generations to pay tribute to their memory.

On October 23, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, speaking at the CHOGM Samoa Business Forum, announced two major initiatives: a Commonwealth Plan of Action for Finance and Investment and establishing a Commonwealth Standards Network. These efforts aim to strengthen financial cooperation and standardize trade practices across Commonwealth nations.

In an update to these announcements, the UK unveiled a broader package designed to increase intra-Commonwealth trade and investment, featuring a Commonwealth Investment Network and a dedicated hub in India to support female-led businesses.

Following the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) shared a vision focused on fostering “shared prosperity” among the 56-member Commonwealth. This includes empowering youth with education and skills training, strengthening democratic governance and human rights, and supporting climate resilience for vulnerable countries.

Read the original article here: https://www.dailypioneer.com/2024/world/uk-to-support-india-hub-for-female-led-businesses-as-part-of-c—wealth-drive.html