The International Day of Parliamentarism celebrated on June 30 every year was marked this year under the theme, “Parliamentary diplomacy: Building bridges for peace and understanding,” underscoring the vital role of parliaments in promoting popular participation and good governance.
This day is an acknowledgment of the importance of parliamentary institutions in shaping policies and laws that serve the interests of the people, enhancing public participation in decision-making and educating the public on international issues and challenges. Qatar’s Shura Council is committed to enhancing and utilising parliamentary diplomacy to expand Qatar’s foreign relations, strengthen its international standing, and support efforts in maintaining international peace and security.
The celebration also offered an opportunity to review the progress of parliamentary work in Qatar, showcasing the Shura Council’s efforts in parliamentary diplomacy, building relations and strengthening cooperation with parliamentary and international organisations.
This year’s theme sent a message to parliaments worldwide to build consensus, enhance international cooperation, and solidarity in facing global challenges such as terrorism, extremism, armed conflicts, climate challenges, and environmental preservation. It also emphasised the importance of involving all segments of society, including women and youth, in parliamentary work to ensure comprehensive and sustainable development.
Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council H E Dr. Hamda bint Hassan Al Sulaiti said that the Council translates these goals through its active participation in international parliamentary events, supporting Arab and Islamic causes, and voicing the concerns and aspirations of Qatari citizens on the global stage. She highlighted the Council’s efforts in promoting the roles of women and youth through dedicated meetings and providing everything necessary to strengthen their importance in society.
The Shura Council promotes dialogue and understanding between peoples in bilateral and multilateral meetings. It plays an active role in the activities and programmes of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) by participating in the international meetings and conferences, proposing initiatives to enhance international parliamentary work and implementing the best parliamentary practices.Qatar’s hosting of the 140th IPU Assembly in 2019 was considered one of the most successful assemblies and received significant international attention.
The Council supported Qatar’s mediation efforts by providing parliamentary backing for government initiatives aimed at resolving disputes. The global community’s appreciation for Qatar’s mediation efforts to resolve conflicts are evidenced by the positive remarks from national parliaments, regional and international parliamentary unions and organisations.
