The 16th Plenary Session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) concluded successfully in Bahrain after two days of intensive high-level deliberations, bringing together parliamentary leaders, legislators, and representatives of observer organisations from across Asia and beyond.
The session held special significance as it coincided with the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the APA in 2006, marking two decades of sustained parliamentary co-operation, dialogue, and collective engagement across Asia.
Held under the theme ‘The Role of Asian Parliaments in Strengthening Intercultural and Inter-Civilisational Dialogue in Asia: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Pathways,’ the session reaffirmed the APA’s role as a vital platform for fostering parliamentary dialogue, enhancing co-operation, and exploring joint responses to shared regional and global challenges.
A key highlight of the session was the formal handover of the APA presidency from Azerbaijan to Bahrain, marking the commencement of Bahrain’s term as President of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly.
The Plenary concluded with the adoption of the Manama Declaration, which reaffirms Asian parliaments’ commitment to dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and peace.
The Declaration calls for strengthened parliamentary action to combat extremism, hate speech, and racism, and emphasises the protection of civilians in conflict zones in full accordance with international humanitarian law.
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