News & Events

Singapore’s tourism sector experienced remarkable growth in 2024, with Indian visitors ranking third amongst international arrivals, according to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Tourism receipts reached unprecedented levels, meeting the board’s upper forecast expectations. International visitor numbers rose by 21% from 2023, totalling 16.5 million.

Tourism receipts from January to September 2024 reached £22.4 billion, a 10% rise compared to the same period in 2023. Sightseeing, entertainment, and gaming led sectoral growth at 25%, with accommodation following at 17%. The food and beverages and shopping sectors grew by 6% and 5%, respectively, while other categories, including airfares and business expenditures, contributed to overall receipts.

Read the original article here: https://www.cnbctv18.com/travel/destinations/indians-surpass-australia-malaysia-to-become-third-largest-tourist-market-for-singapore-19553714.htm

Over three billion people rely on the ocean for their livelihoods, and in the Commonwealth, 49 of 56 member states have ocean borders. To ensure ocean health, the Commonwealth Secretariat, in partnership with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), launched the GEM-in-a-Box project. This initiative provides tools for Commonwealth nations to test their waterways and monitor eutrophication, a process that harms marine life.

DFO developed the GEM-in-a-Box kits, which have been tested for reliability and are now being used by eight member states, including the Bahamas, Bangladesh, and South Africa. The project offers affordable technology for monitoring ocean health and aims to scale up with further training and support.

The collaboration highlights the power of partnerships in advancing sustainable ocean stewardship. Trainees, such as Ernest Ohandja Nomo in Cameroon and Dr. Brandon J. Bethel in The Bahamas, are now sharing their knowledge to improve ocean monitoring and water quality.

Read the original article here: https://thecommonwealth.org/news/commonwealth-countries-advance-ocean-science-gem-box

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, has announced ‘Together We Thrive’ as the theme for Commonwealth Day 2025, which will be celebrated on Monday, 10 March. Events throughout March will include civic and faith gatherings, school assemblies, debates, flag-raising ceremonies, and cultural celebrations across the Commonwealth.

This year’s theme celebrates the unity of the 56 Commonwealth nations, highlighting shared values of family, peace, and progress. Patricia Scotland said, “Commonwealth Day reaffirms our commitment to unity, peace, and equality, with ‘Together We Thrive’ embodying the strength of our global family.”

The Commonwealth Advantage, a 21% reduction in trade costs between member states, reflects their shared commitment to democracy and sustainable development.

In London, events will include a reception for member-state representatives and a multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey. The Commonwealth Secretariat’s website will provide resources for global celebrations, including a new logo, educational materials, and a social media toolkit. As the Commonwealth celebrates, it reaffirms its goal of creating a future where all 2.7 billion citizens live in safe, equitable societies united by peace and partnership.

Read the original article here: https://thecommonwealth.org/news/together-we-thrive-announced-theme-commonwealth-day-2025