In 1964, he proposed establishing a permanent Commonwealth Secretariat, arguing that it would help the organisation become “more in tune with the common aspirations of its members.” He envisioned a modern, equal, multiracial Commonwealth that transcended its colonial origins. Uganda’s Milton Obote formally submitted the proposal to establish the Secretariat at the 1964 Commonwealth Prime Ministers’ Meeting. In 1965, the Commonwealth Secretariat was officially established, with Canadian diplomat Arnold Smith appointed as its first Secretary-General. We remain committed to advancing the vision of those visionary leaders – uniting our unique family in service of peace, prosperity and progress for all. Related newsInaugural address from the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey