Luanda - The president of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Duarte Pacheco, Monday, in Luanda, praised the Angolan government's experience in achieving effective peace in the country, after long years of internal conflict, and called on other states in the world to follow Angola's example.
He emphasised the example of Angola of how it managed to overcome the conflict and be available to live in peace and pursue development, having encouraged other countries to follow this path.
Duarte Pacheco, who was speaking at the press conference to present the 147th General Assembly of the IPU, highlighted the importance of an event of great magnitude, totally focused on the culture of peace, taking place in a country that has experienced war, especially at a time when there are so many conflicts in the world.
However, he called on delegates and their parliaments to commit to strengthening the culture of dialogue and tolerance so that peace can become a reality all over the world.
According to the IPU leader, at a time when there are so many conflicts in the world, there is an urgent need for parliamentarians from all the countries in the world to sit down and talk about peace processes.
Duarte Pacheco, a Portuguese national, praised the level of organisation and the hospitality of the Angolan authorities and expressed his conviction that the event would be a success.
He said that the presence of the IPU board, as well as the holding of the assembly is due to an invitation from the Angolan authorities, namely the President of the Republic and the Speaker of the National Assembly.
During the conference, which was also addressed by the institution's secretary-general, Martin Chungon, it was announced that 1,300 participants were present, representing 130 countries, including more than 50 parliament speakers.
The event, which runs until Friday 27th, includes different debates on topics related to the main international issues, highlighting the culture of promoting peace and democracy.
The 147th General Assembly of the IPU, among other issues, participants will analyse issues such as partnerships for climate action, promoting access to affordable green energy and ensuring innovation, responsibility and equity, as well as to prepare for the parliamentary meeting of the United Nations Commission on Climate Change (COP28) to take place in the United Arab Emirates.
It will also discuss the trafficking of children in orphanages and the role of parliaments in reducing the damage.
VC/VIC/MRA/jmc
