Fiji, July 23 -- Commonwealth Secretary General, Shirley Botchwey has called on member countries to recognise sport as a strategic investment in development, saying it can help address health, inequality, economic and social challenges across the Commonwealth.

Opening the 12th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Glasgow, Botchwey said the gathering came at an important time as the city prepares to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

"Your presence reflects the importance we collectively attach to sport - not simply as competition or entertainment, but as a powerful force for development, resilience and prosperity, she told Ministers.

She said the Commonwealth Games represented more than sporting competition.

"They are, of course, a...