Commonwealth Heads Of State Meeting Commences Today

This year it is the UK's turn to host the 53 leaders for the biannual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, known as CHOGM.

On Thursday, the Queen, in her role as head of the Commonwealth, will officially open the meeting and welcome the 53 leaders at Buckingham Palace with the theme "a common future".

But from today a series of discussion forums will be held at venues across London, looking at some of the world's most pressing global challenges. 

Many of the UK's royal family will be involved in the summit, meeting with leaders from around the world, including Zambia's representative Vice President Inonge Wina.

Prince Harry will attend the youth forum on Monday morning, his first event as the new Commonwealth Youth Ambassador. He has been given the title by the Queen.

Prince Charles will attend events focused on climate change and plastics in the oceans.

The Duchess of Cornwall and Meghan Markle will separately attend the women's forum, while Prince William and Prince Andrew will go to business events.