Guyana's aspirations have been advanced by the values and work of the Commonwealth, the Guyana Govern-ment says in its statement on the occasion of Commonwealth Day today.

Guyana, as a member of the Commonwealth, is deeply committed not only to the freedom of expression and other civil rights but also to freedom from want, hunger, illiteracy and disease, the statement noted.

"Building a Commonwealth of Freedom" which is the theme of this year's celebrations, reflects admirably the Common-wealth's unshakable commitment to individual liberty and national democratic norms, the message said.

The Guyana Government also noted that the "many successes of the Commonwealth have provided greater hope for peoples everywhere, especially for youth, women and the poor - the most disadvantaged groups in our societies."

The government acknowledged that Guyana's contributions to the Commonwealth and the benefits gained from membership are significant. The statement said the continuing programme of cooperation between Guyana and the Commonwealth has included assistance in the management of the HIPC (Heavily Indebted Poor Countries) process; institutional development of the National Drainage and Irrigation Board; technical assistance over the last five years; the development of the mining sector; urban development and several other forms of technical aid.

Beyond this, the statement continued, the "Commonwealth has been very instrumental in helping us to consolidate our growing democracy through the facilitation of Sir Paul Reeves." The government also paid tribute to the Commonwealth Secretariat and its work to promote democratic freedoms for the benefit of the Commonwealth family and all humanity.