By Fatma Younis
The United Kingdom has committed to a structured, time-bound, inclusive and good-faith dialogue with nations affected by the transatlantic slave trade, according to a joint communique issued by Commonwealth leaders.
The statement declared that the moment had arrived for a meaningful, truthful and respectful conversation toward forging a common future based on equity. The move follows Prime Minister Andy Burnham's indication that the UK would consider a formal apology for its historic role in the slave trade, though he ruled out direct reparations.
Burnham emphasized that the Commonwealth is "more important today than ever before" amid volatile global times, speaking after a meeting with his Antigua and Barbuda counterpart Gaston Browne.
