The flag of the Commonwealth of Independent States () was adopted in 1996 and depicts a yellow sun on a dark blue field, with one straight and eight bending poles holding the sun. The design symbolizes the desire for equal partnership, unity, peace and stability.
The 8 bending poles represent the 8 states which signed the 1991 treaty forming the CIS.
Former flag Before the flag was adopted, a provisional flag just showing the text "C.I.S." on a white background was used, such as at sporting events where a Commonwealth team replaced the USSR after the Soviets had qualified but weren't able to attend before it was dissolved.
See also Emblem of the Commonwealth of Independent States Flag of the Soviet Union
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