Royal Watch News

Queen Elizabeth makes comeback for Commonwealth Day

Mar 12, 2013, 12:02 GMT

Queen Elizabeth

Britain's Queen Elizabeth made her first public appearance since her illness yesterday (11.03.13).

Despite still suffering from gastroenteritis symptoms, the monarch attended a historic ceremony at Marlborough House in central London for the signing of the Commonwealth's treaty.

The 86-year-old queen was forced to cancel her appearance at the earlier Commonwealth Day Observance service because she felt unwell, but put on a brave face to perform her royal duty alongside her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh.

Speaking before the ceremony, she told guests: 'The Charter I will sign today, on behalf of you all, represents a significant milestone as the Commonwealth continues its journey of development and renewal.

'We have now, for the first time, a single document that captures the core values and aspirations of the Commonwealth and all its members.'

The treaty marks the first time one document has been agreed by all 54 member states of the Commonwealth which contains a comprehensive range of principles and values, from gender equality to rule of law.

The Commonwealth Day Observance service at Westminster Abbey earlier in the day saw High Commissioners from around the world listen to a key-note address from Sir Richard Branson.

The queen was hit by a stomach bug a week ago and spent last Sunday night (11.03.13) at King Edward VII's Hospital before being discharged on Monday.