London: Veteran Indian diplomat Kamalesh Sharma today took charge as the Commonwealth Secretary General, saying issues of women and youth as well as development challenges faced by small states will be among his top priorities.

"I intend to put the potential in sharing mutual strengths, issues of women and young people, as well as development challenges faced by small states in particular, among my priority concerns," 66-year-old Sharma said.

"I take up office with confidence and enthusiasm. I am grateful to the leaders of our 53 member countries for the trust they have placed in me to carry forward the work of the Commonwealth," said Sharma.

Sharma, who served as India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom before his appointment to the Commonwealth, succeeded Don McKinnon, who stepped down at the end of his eight-year tenure.

"It is an honour and privilege to serve this great organisation," Sharma said. "The commonwealth is a great global good. It is a force for genuine and creative partnership in addressing our collective challenges. I look forward to building on its strengths and achievements."
Source : PTI