Ayorkor Botchwey Calls for Commonwealth Solidarity Amid Tariff Challenges

Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has underscored the critical importance of strengthened cooperation among Commonwealth nations in the face of recent global trade disruptions.

Addressing the Commonwealth Trade & Investment Summit 2025 at Mansion House in London on April 7, 2025, Botchwey emphasised that the sweeping tariffs imposed last week have further highlighted the need for collaboration.

“The sweeping tariffs implemented last week shook markets around the world. Some target Commonwealth countries directly. All of us are affected,” she remarked, stressing that the challenges underscore the urgency of collective action. “This is very far from business as usual. And business as usual wasn’t working for the Commonwealth.”

Ayorkor Botchwey expressed confidence in the Commonwealth’s ability to serve as a bridge amid growing fragmentation in global trade.

“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 stated.