LUANDA: The Council of Oman, under the leadership of Shaikh Dr Al Khattab bin Ghalib al Hinai, Deputy Chairman of the State Council, participated in the 147th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and its accompanying meetings hosted by the Republic of Angola.
In his address to the international parliamentary community, Shaikh Dr Al Khattab emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting human rights as a core priority for all nations.
He underscored this by upholding human rights, and societies progress, leading to the spread of peace and security, benefiting not only individuals but society as a whole, as well as the world at large.
Shaikh Dr Al Khattab also highlighted the grave consequences of rights violations, which breed animosity, injustice, and a climate of non-coexistence, tension, and discontent among diverse populations. Such violations disrupt peace and stability, resulting in chaos within societies and on a global scale.
Shaikh Dr Al Khattab also pointed out that the Inter-Parliamentary Union's focus on discussions about peace, justice, and strong institutions underscores the organisation's deep commitment to human rights.
He also stressed that parliaments play a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights of the people they represent. Given their proximity to the public and their active role in listening to and working on behalf of their constituents, parliaments are often the first to respond to rights violations, working diligently to find solutions that restore and uphold these rights.
As part of its engagement in the 147th General Assembly of the IPU, the Council of Oman's delegation actively participated in various committees, including those dedicated to democracy and human rights, United Nations affairs, sustainable development, international peace and security, and meetings of the Association of Secretaries-General of National Parliaments.
The discussions encompassed critical issues such as the United Nations' role in supporting national development, the pursuit of gender equality, climate partnerships to promote environmentally friendly energy access, and initiatives to foster innovation, responsibility, and fairness.
The agenda also included preparations for the parliamentary meeting at the United Nations Climate Change Conference and deliberations on the reform of the Security Council to promote a more multilateral system.
In the course of their involvement in the 147th General Assembly of the IPU, the delegation from the Council of Oman took part in a session discussing the vital role of parliaments in cultivating a culture of transparency, combating corruption, and fostering citizen participation to rebuild trust in national and international institutions.
They also attended meetings of the Governing Council, during which the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union was elected, and decisions pertaining to the human rights of parliamentarians were addressed.
The Council of Oman's delegation, led by the Deputy President of the State Council, included the Secretary-General of the State Council, the Secretary-General of the Majlis Ash'shura, and several members from the State Council and the Majlis Ash'shura. - ONA
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