LONDON, March 12 (UPI) -- Britain's former colonies have common values that can help build a better world, Queen Elizabeth II said Monday.
In commemorating Commonwealth Day, the monarch said that even though the group consists of 53 member countries representing nearly 2 billion people, it remains "at heart a collection of villages.
"In close-knit communities like these, there are beliefs and values we share and cherish. We know that helping others will lead to greater security and prosperity for ourselves," she added.
The queen also said that as a successful community of nations, the Commonwealth countries need to help one another, and allow each member to flourish in what they are good at.
"We are a thriving community; we value our past; we make the most of our present; and we are working together to build our future," she said.
