Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Visitors to the Legislative Assembly today may have noticed the Union Jack flying over our building, and that is because today is Commonwealth Day, the annual celebration of the Commonwealth of Nations, which throughout the world is being celebrated by the organization 53 member states.
More than 2.4 billion people live in those 53 nations that make up the Commonwealth, accounting for 30 per cent of the world's population and representing every continent on earth. The theme of this year's celebration is "Towards a Common Future." This day not only symbolizes the continued connection to our heritage, but demonstrates how institutions that stem from that heritage, like the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, will remain vital for the continued success and prosperity of all sibling nations of the Commonwealth.
Earlier today, Her Majesty the Queen attended a multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey and gave her annual address, this year centering on solving important global challenges like ensuring environmental sustainability and promoting fairness and equality. As we enter the 66th year of her rein, the Queen, more now than ever, acts as a living embodiment of stability and continuity, which are the foundational principles of the Commonwealth. Her Majesty's grace and leadership continues to inspire all member nations and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, of which this Assembly is a member.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association is an organization which works to support good governance, democracy, and human rights. It strives to create the conditions throughout its member states and all nations of the world where we can work together to secure a more sustainable, prosperous, fair, and safer Commonwealth for all. I have had the pleasure of being involved with this organization for a few years now and can attest to the work and benefits that come from having this form for leaders across the 53 nations to meet and accomplish goals that will lead us towards a common future.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand as a member of this House and as part of a Parliamentary tradition that stretches back hundreds of years. Commonwealth Day is an important opportunity to celebrate this heritage as a beacon for stability in an ever more unstable world. Let's take this time on Commonwealth Day to celebrate the continued peace, order, and good governance Commonwealth nations have fostered together. Let us also recognize the good works brought forth by continued cooperation within our Commonwealth like the CPA, and finally let us take a moment to recognize her Majesty the Queen.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Happy Commonwealth Day, and God Save the Queen.