30.09.2024 / Video

Address by the Secretary General of AIPA Siti Rosaimeriyanti Binti Dato Seri Lela Jas Haji Abdul Rahman to the participants of the IV Eurasian Women's Forum.

Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen.

As the Secretary General of AIPA, it is a great honour and pleasure for me to address today’s important session of the Fourth Eurasian Women’s Forum. This Forum represents the collective commitment of us, women, to engage in dialogue and joint action on pressing global issues.

Today, in our rapidly changing world, achieving peace and trust is becoming an increasingly difficult task.

For women to continue to advance peace and security, we must not only amplify our voices, but also build trust and support for our leadership. This requires not only policy frameworks that encourage women’s participation, but also collective efforts to overcome barriers – be they cultural, economic, or institutional – that prevent their full participation.

It is here that women, particularly those in parliamentary positions, are uniquely positioned to lead these efforts and help sustain our shared aspirations for peace.

As we look at the important topic of “Inter-parliamentary Dialogue: The Mission of Women in Shaping a New Agenda for Peace and Trust”, I am reminded of the influential role that women have played – and continue to play – in ensuring and maintaining peace.

This theme goes to the heart of what we, as women parliamentarians, seek to achieve through our collective efforts. Since its inception, AIPA has been dedicated to promoting peace, security and prosperity throughout ASEAN with a strong commitment to upholding the principles of human rights and democracy, as reflected in the AIPA Charter and enshrined in the AIPA Strategic Plan 2023-2030.

AIPA has taken concrete steps to ensure that women’s voices are not only heard, but play a leading role in promoting peace and security. Our commitment is reflected in the AIPA Resolution on Enhancing the Role of Women Parliamentarians in Promoting Women, Peace and Security, which was adopted at the 43rd AIPA General Assembly.

Furthermore, through our standing committee, Women Parliamentarians of AIPA (WAIPA), the development of the Action Plan and Implementation Framework on Women's Political Participation and Leadership (WPPL) 2024-2030 places particular emphasis on peace and security, inclusive growth and development as fundamental elements in supporting the role of women in strengthening peace and security.

Inter-parliamentary dialogue plays a crucial role in realising this agenda. By promoting open communication, trust and cooperation between parliaments, we can share best practices, address common challenges and develop innovative solutions. And our collective efforts in this dialogue are essential to shaping policies that can not only address immediate challenges but also build long-term trust and cooperation.

And as we continue to navigate these challenging times, the role of women in shaping a new agenda for peace and trust through inter-parliamentary dialogue is more important than ever. AIPA remains committed to advancing this agenda by facilitating cooperation between our Member Parliaments, Observer Parliaments and partners. Let us seize this opportunity to collaborate, exchange views and work together towards a future where peace and trust are not just aspirations, but a reality for all.

Thank you.