Midrand, August 1, 2026 – The Europe Today: Speaker of Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis, Sahiba Gafarova, has emphasized the growing importance of parliamentary diplomacy and multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges, while addressing the Conference of Speakers of National and Regional Parliaments hosted by the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand.
According to AZERTAC, the conference brought together speakers of national and regional legislatures from across Africa, along with officials and representatives of international parliamentary organizations, to discuss the evolving role of parliaments in global governance.
In her address, Speaker Gafarova highlighted the profound global transformations taking place amid ongoing conflicts, widening economic inequality, and climate-related challenges. She stressed that parliaments must play a greater role in international decision-making, particularly at a time when public confidence in global institutions is facing increasing pressure.
She noted that parliaments serve as the voice of citizens, linking national priorities with the international agenda while translating political commitments into effective legislation and practical action.
Gafarova underscored the expanding role of legislative institutions in addressing global issues, saying their responsibilities extend beyond lawmaking to strengthening international dialogue and cooperation.
She also highlighted the growing significance of the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement, which brings together more than 70 member states and has emerged as an important platform for promoting parliamentary collaboration and dialogue.
Emphasizing the value of multilateral engagement, the Speaker praised the role of the Pan-African Parliament in advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063, describing it as an important framework for the continent’s long-term development and integration.
Gafarova reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening relations with African countries based on equality, mutual respect, and shared interests. She stressed that Africa should be recognized globally not only for its demographic potential but also for its ideas, priorities, innovation, and leadership in shaping the international agenda.
Highlighting future prospects for parliamentary diplomacy, she also described the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) as a strategic global platform that promotes dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding among parliaments representing diverse political systems and regions.
