The Shura Council State of Qatar

The Shura Council participated in the 15th plenary session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly and its accompanying meetings, held over four days in Baku, under the theme "Role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening multilateral cooperation in Asia". The session concluded its activities on Thursday.

Representing the Shura Council at the General Assembly were HE Shura Council Member and Vice President of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly Eng. Ahmed bin Hitmi Al Hitmi, and Their Excellencies Council Members Saoud bin Jassim Al Buainain; and Nasser bin Metrif Al Hemeidi.

During the plenary session, which discussed the theme "Role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening multilateral cooperation in Asia," HE Eng. Ahmed bin Hitmi Al Hitmi reaffirmed Qatar's firm stance in supporting just causes, foremost among them being the Palestinian cause.

His Excellency emphasized that the Palestinian issue is not just a political matter but a test of the international community's humanity, highlighting that the Palestinian people are facing unprecedented aggression threatening their existence and legitimate rights; while stressing that Qatar's position has always been clear in supporting the steadfastness of Palestinians both politically and humanely, and affirming that peace cannot be achieved without justice, and no stability without ending the occupation.

HE Eng. Al Hitmi called on Asian parliaments to shoulder their responsibilities in defending the rights of the Palestinian people through parliamentary diplomacy in various international forums.

His Excellency also touched upon the importance of joint parliamentary work in facing the challenges confronting Asian countries, highlighting the need to enhance constructive dialogue and continuous communication between Asian parliaments, which contributes to closer viewpoints and strengthening the international presence of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly.

His Excellency emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation in international forums, enabling Asian countries to defend their interests more cohesively and contributing to building a more balanced and just international system, noting that parliamentary diplomacy has become a key tool in enhancing dialogue and understanding among peoples, and pointing out that the role of parliaments extends beyond legislation to building bridges of cooperation in political, economic, and social fields.

His Excellency underscored the necessity of leveraging this diplomacy more effectively by supporting initiatives that contribute to achieving security and stability in the continent.

HE Eng. Ahmed bin Hitmi Al Hitmi concluded by asserting that the Asian Parliamentary Assembly holds a real opportunity to enhance its role in shaping the continent's future, calling for joint efforts to achieve goals serving the interests of Asian peoples and entrenching the principle of multilateral cooperation.

The plenary session addressed several important issues, including the renewal of Qatar's election, represented by the Shura Council, as Vice President of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly for 2025. The session also discussed enhancing joint parliamentary work on regional and international issues.

The meetings reviewed several draft resolutions from the standing committees.

The session concluded with the issuance of the "Baku Declaration," which welcomed the announcement of securing a ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of fully implementing the agreement to alleviate humanitarian suffering and promote stability.

The declaration also condemned all forms of discrimination, racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia, calling for the promotion of tolerance and mutual understanding.

It affirmed the importance of actively including women and youth in social, economic, and political fields, and enhancing regional cooperation across various sectors, including health, education, environment, and sustainable development, with a focus on poverty reduction, food security, and healthcare.

The declaration called on Asian governments to bolster the implementation of sustainable development goals, develop inclusive and sustainable growth strategies, and support effective policies in health, social protection, and renewable energy, emphasizing the importance of investments in environmentally friendly infrastructure.