International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) Participates 14th Plenary Session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) in Baku
Islamabad, February 26, 2024 – The International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) proudly attended the Executive Council Meeting and the 14th Plenary Session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA), held in Baku from February 20 to 24, 2024. The theme of the Plenary Session was “Fostering Regional Cooperation for Sustainable Development in Asia,” reflecting a shared commitment to addressing critical regional challenges through collaborative efforts. The IPC delegation was led by Secretary General IPC Senator Sitara Ayaz and accompanied by Ms. Mehk Butt Manager Communication IPC, who actively participated in the session. IPC, having received observer status from APA during its 13th Plenary Session, engaged in the 14th Plenary as an observer organization, contributing valuable insights and fostering dialogue among the participating nations. During the Plenary, IPC’s Secretary General delivered an impactful speech on the theme of fostering regional cooperation for sustainable development in Asia. The speech was well-received by speakers from various countries, highlighting the significance of regional collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals. In addition to participating in the Plenary discussions, the IPC delegation held several bilateral meetings with key parliamentary leaders. Notably, the delegation met with the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, the Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council of Qatar, and an official from the Russian Parliament. These meetings provided an excellent platform for strengthening inter-parliamentary relationships and discussing potential areas of cooperation on shared regional issues. The IPC remains dedicated to its mission of addressing pressing social issues through international parliamentary collaboration. Our participation in the APA’s 14th Plenary Session underscores our commitment to fostering sustainable development and regional cooperation in Asia.
International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) Observes Russian Presidential Elections 2024
Islamabad, March 17th 2024 – The International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) observed the Russian presidential elections held from March 15 to 17, 2024. The election observation mission was led by IPC Secretary General, Senator Sitara Ayaz. The observation mission was a profound experience, providing valuable insights into the Russian electoral system. The introduction of electronic voting, alongside the traditional manual voting system, was a notable highlight. This dual approach was widely appreciated for its inclusivity and the flexibility it provided to voters, enhancing the overall integrity and accessibility of the election process. During the election observation mission, the SecretaryGeneral also met with officials from the Russian Election Commission. These meetings facilitated discussions on the election administration, the technological integration in the voting process, and the measures taken to ensure a transparent and fair election. “The Russian presidential elections showcased a commendable effort to integrate modern technology while maintaining traditional voting methods, ensuring that all citizens could participate in the democratic process in a manner that suited them best,” said Secretary General IPC Senator Sitara Ayaz. “Our observations and interactions with the Russian Election Commission officials have been highly informative and have provided us with a deeper understanding of their electoral framework.” The insights gained from observing the Russian presidential elections will contribute to our ongoing efforts to support free and fair elections globally.
International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) Election Observation Mission to Azerbaijan: February 2024
February 7, 2024 Baku, Azerbaijan – The delegation of the International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC), comprising three esteemed members, observed the presidential elections of Azerbaijan, held on 7th February 2024. The delegation was led by Mr. Soro Fobeh, a Member of IPC from Côte d’Ivoire, and included Ms. Asmaou Berry, a Member of IPC from Guinea, and Ms. Mehk Butt, a Manager of Communication at IPC. IPC received official accreditation from the Election Commission of Azerbaijan, allowing them to conduct a thorough observation of the election procedures. During the election observation mission, the IPC delegation visited multiple polling stations in Baku and Sumqayit. The team observed the entire voting process and engaged with election officials, voters, and other stakeholders to gain comprehensive insights into the conduct of the election. In addition to their on-ground observation, the delegation held a press briefing with local media in Baku. They shared their experiences and preliminary findings, highlighting the strengths and areas for improvement in the electoral process. The IPC delegation also issued a formal press statement summarizing their observations. Mr. Soro Fobeh, head of the delegation, stated, “Our mission in Azerbaijan was conducted with the utmost dedication to impartiality and transparency. We appreciate the cooperation of the Election Commission and the warm reception from the Azerbaijan Election Commission and the government. Our observations indicate significant efforts towards a fair electoral process, and we encourage continuous improvement for future elections.” The IPC is committed to promoting democratic values and supporting electoral integrity worldwide. The observations and recommendations from this mission will contribute to enhancing the electoral framework in Azerbaijan and reinforcing the principles of democracy.
International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) accredited to observe the General Elections of Bangladesh January 2024
Amman, 8thJanuary 2024 – H.E. AbdelRahim Maaia, a member of the International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) from House of Representatives, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, observed the general elections of Bangladesh held on 7th January 2024. This observation mission was conducted following the accreditation granted to IPC by the Election Commission of Bangladesh. During the election observation mission, H.E. AbdelRahim Maaia met with officials from the Election Commission of Bangladesh, attended an orientation meeting on the elections, and participated in a dinner hosted by the Election Commission. These engagements provided a deeper understanding of the electoral processes and allowed for meaningful exchanges on best practices in election administration. The experience proved to be highly informative, providing valuable insights into the electoral processes of Bangladesh. H.E. AbdelRahim Maaia had the opportunity to witness the comprehensive setup of polling stations, the professionalism of election officials, and the enthusiastic participation of voters. The high level of organization and the transparency of the process were particularly noteworthy. The Election Commission of Bangladesh was commended for its efforts to ensure a fair and transparent election. H.E. AbdelRahim Maaia remarked on the importance of such international observation missions, highlighting how they contribute to the promotion of democratic values and good governance.
Paving the Future: Chairman Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani Leads Key IPC Progress Review Meeting
𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝑺𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑭𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒔 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 (𝑰𝑷𝑪), 𝑴𝒖𝒉𝒂𝒎𝒎𝒂𝒅 𝑺𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒒 𝑺𝒂𝒏𝒋𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒊, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒓𝒔 𝒂 𝑴𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝑰𝑷𝑪’𝒔 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔The Chairman Senate and the Founding President of the International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC), Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, presided over a meeting today at the Parliament House to assess the progress and developments of IPC.During the meeting, attended by IPC and Senate officials, thorough and detailed deliberations took place. These deliberations culminated in a decision to proceed with the election of the President of IPC. The official election schedule is set to be announced in December 2023. The meeting was attended by Secretary Senate, Mohammad Qasim Samad Khan; Secretary General IPC, Sitara Ayaz; Executive Director PIPS, Muhammad Anwar and Director General Coordination Senate, Mir Shae Mazar Baloch.This decision to elect a new President marks a significant step forward in IPC’s journey to further enhance its role in the global parliamentary community. The upcoming election will ensure the continued dedication and leadership of IPC in facilitating international parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy.Chairman Senate and Founding President of IPC, Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, expressed his commitment to the organization’s mission and values, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the upcoming election process.
Two members IPC Delegation attended the 147th IPU Assembly in Angola, Strengthening International Collaboration
A two-member delegation from the International Parliamentarians’ Congress (IPC), comprised of Secretary General Senator Sitara Ayaz and Assistant Secretary General Mr. Ijlal Ali Khan, visited Angola to attend the ‘147th Assembly’ of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), scheduled to be held from October 23 to 27, 2023. The delegation intended to engage in meaningful dialogues and promote parliamentary collaboration through engaging with international parliamentarians, international organizations, and their representatives. During their visit, the IPC delegation met with multiple speakers, members of parliaments, and heads of international organizations to exchange views and ideas on how to contribute to the peace, and prosperity of the world and how to work collectively to resolve global issues. The IPC delegation attended the sideline meeting of the Asian Parliamentary Association (APA), and later, the Secretary General of the IPC also met with the SG APA, Mr. Mohammad Reza MAJIDI. They agreed to further strengthen and expand cooperation between the IPC and APA. Secretary General IPC Senator Sitara Ayaz held a meeting with the former President of the IPU, Dr. Duarte to discuss matters of mutual interest. The SG of the IPC appreciated the President IPU’s efforts for peace and prosperity and congratulated him on holding the IPU’s 147th Assembly. They stressed the need to enhance parliamentary engagements to find solutions to intricate problems. The IPC delegation underscored the essence of engagement of public representatives in tackling existing and emerging challenges to human civilization; therefore, they held meetings with various parliamentarians to share mutual ideas and requested them to become a member of the IPC. Furthermore, the delegation of IPC met with a Spanish parliamentary delegation, a Delegation from Malta, Delegation from Australia headed by Mr. Milton Dick, the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Australia, and briefed them about the IPC. They appreciated the IPC’s constant efforts in strengthening democracy and encouraging inclusive growth. In response to the request to become members of IPC made by the IPC delegation during the 147th Assembly of the IPU, parliamentarians from Turkey, Somalia, Iran, Portugal, Egypt, Cote d’Ivoire, Myanmar, Uganda, and Rwanda have joined as IPC members. This expansion has elevated IPC’s membership from 52 to 56 countries and from 198 Member parliamentarians to 214.
Two-Member Delegation Headed by International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) Secretary General Senator Sitara Ayaz Observes Maldives Presidential Elections 2023
A delegation consisting of two esteemed members from the International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) recently carried out a comprehensive election observation mission in the Maldives. Led by IPC Secretary General Senator Sitara Ayaz, the delegation, accompanied by Member IPC from Jordan Parliament H.E AbdelRahim Maaia, received official accreditation from the Maldives Election Commission and diligently observed the presidential elections held on September 9, 2023. During their mission, the IPC delegation visited various polling stations across the Male, closely observing the entire electoral process. Their presence aimed to evaluate the transparency, fairness, and integrity of the election, ensuring that democratic values were upheld throughout the voting procedure. The delegation actively engaged with local officials, election staff, and voters to garner a comprehensive understanding of the process. Apart from their direct involvement in the elections, the IPC delegation also held significant meetings, notably with the Foreign Minister of Japan and the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Maldives. These diplomatic engagements aimed to foster meaningful relationships, exchange views on democratic processes, and discuss potential areas of cooperation with IPC. One of the highlights of the delegation’s mission was their participation in the vote-counting process. They observed every aspect to ensure transparency, accuracy, and adherence to established procedures. Upholding the principles of independence and objectivity, the IPC delegation meticulously assessed the overall conduct of the election, offering valuable insights and recommendations for future improvements. Senator Sitara Ayaz, Secretary General of the IPC, expressed her gratitude to the Maldives Election Commission for their cooperation and support throughout the mission. The IPC delegation’s impartial assessment will soon be submitted in a comprehensive report, highlighting their observations, and recommendations. This report, after the approval by the government of Maldives, will be published and add as a resource material of IPC.
International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) successfully held the Groundbreaking Ceremony of it’s Permanent Headquarters in Diplomatic Enclave, Islamabad
The International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) marked a historic moment today with the groundbreaking ceremony of its Permanent Headquarters in the Diplomatic Enclave of Islamabad. Distinguished member parliamentarians of IPC from across the globe, including member Parliament of Guinea, Azerbaijan, and Jordan, as well as representatives from international organizations, gathered to celebrate this significant milestone. The event was graced by the presence of eminent dignitaries, notably Dr. Duarte Pacheco, the Head of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), and a two members delegation from the Association of World Election Bodies (AWEB). The ceremony was honored by the esteemed Chief Guest, Senator Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan and President of IPC. Speaking at the occasion, President IPC H.E Senator Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani emphasized the importance of IPC as a platform for fostering international collaboration among global parliamentarians. He underscored the significance of the Permanent Headquarters as a hub for promoting dialogue, cooperation, and the exchange of ideas to address global challenges. Honorable Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, the Minister of Law and Justice also graced the ceremony. He lauded the IPC’s efforts in enhancing parliamentary diplomacy and bridging cultures through constructive dialogue. Following the groundbreaking ceremony, the international delegation, comprising parliamentarians from various nations, the President of IPU, and the AWEB delegation, embarked on a visit to the Parliament House. The delegation had an insightful meeting with Senator Mirza Muhammad Afridi, Deputy Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan, discussing mutual interests and international parliamentary cooperation. Later, the delegation had the privilege of meeting the finance minister, further strengthening the bonds of international cooperation. The groundbreaking ceremony of IPC’s Permanent Headquarters underscores its commitment to fostering international cooperation, dialogue, and diplomacy. It is a significant step towards providing a dedicated space for parliamentarians from around the world to engage in meaningful discussions and shape the global agenda for positive change. The IPC Permanent Headquarters is anticipated to become a hub of innovation, ideas, and international unity, reflecting the shared aspirations of the global parliamentary community.
The delegation of the International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) successfully observes the Presidential Elections of Uzbekistan 2023 – Strengthening Global Democracy
The International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC) sent a two-member delegation on an election observation mission to Tashkent, Uzbekistan to observe the Presidential Elections of Uzbekistan, held on 9th July 2023. The delegation, comprising Secretary General IPC Senator Sitara Ayaz and Member IPC Senator Faisal Saleem Rahman, concluded their four-day visit, during which they closely monitored the electoral process and engaged in various diplomatic activities. The IPC obtained official accreditation from the Central Election Commission of Uzbekistan, to participate as international observers in the event of an election. The delegation actively fulfilled its mandate to observe the presidential elections in accordance with international standards. During their visit, the IPC delegation undertook a series of engagements and had the opportunity to meet with high-ranking officials. On day one, prior to the election day, the delegation held a productive bilateral meeting with the Chairperson of the Committee of Foreign Relations of the Senate of Uzbekistan and various parliamentarians. During the meeting, the IPC delegation provided a comprehensive briefing on their objectives and expectations for the election observation mission. On day two, the IPC delegation actively observed the presidential elections, precisely monitoring the electoral system and interacting with citizens. Interviews were conducted to gather valuable insights and opinions on the electoral process. Additionally, the delegation had a meeting with the Chairman of the Central Election Commission of Uzbekistan. The Chairman provided a detailed overview of the election proceedings, and both parties exchanged symbolic souvenirs as a token of goodwill and collaboration. As part of their visit, on the third day, the IPC delegation embarked on a trip to the enchanting city of Samarkand, where they had the opportunity to explore its rich historical and cultural heritage. This visit served as a testament to the delegation’s appreciation for the host country’s diverse and vibrant culture. Senator Sitara Ayaz, Secretary General of IPC, expressed her gratitude for the warm reception and support received from the Uzbek Government. She stated, “Our delegation was honored to be part of this momentous occasion and witness the democratic spirit demonstrated by the Uzbek people. We commend the efforts made by the Central Election Commission to ensure a transparent and inclusive electoral process.” Senator Faisal Saleem Rahman, Member IPC, emphasized the importance of international cooperation and shared democratic values. He remarked, “By actively participating in the observation of the presidential elections, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering democracy, upholding human rights, and supporting fair electoral processes worldwide. We commend the people of Uzbekistan for their engagement and participation in this democratic exercise.” The IPC delegation’s visit to Uzbekistan concluded as a successful Election observation mission, marked by constructive engagement, diligent observation, and the strengthening of diplomatic ties between the IPC and Uzbekistan.
The Delegation of International Parliamentarians’ Congress Observes Thailand General Elections 2023
14th May 2023: The International Parliamentarians’ Congress (IPC) successfully conducted an election observation mission to Thailand and observe their General Elections 2023. The IPC, having received accreditation from the Electoral Commission of Thailand (ECT), deployed a two-member delegation to observe the electoral process and ensure its transparency and fairness. The delegation was headed by the Secretary General IPC Senator Sitara Ayaz, accompanied by Manager Communications IPC Ms. Mehk Butt. The delegation arrived in Bangkok and immediately engaged in a comprehensive program organized by the ECT. On day one, a key meeting was held, during which the ECT shared detailed information about the election process with all the observer organizations. This meeting served as an essential foundation for understanding the electoral procedures and principles that would guide the observation mission. Moreover, the delegation met with the representatives from A-WEB, the Election Commission of India, the Election Commission of Cambodia, the Election Commission of South Africa and various other officials and international organizations representatives. On day two, which was the pre-election day, the IPC delegation visited various polling stations in Bangkok, with the purpose of closely observing the process of distributing election materials to the dedicated polling station staff. Additionally, the delegation had the opportunity to interview a select number of staff members to gain insights into their roles, responsibilities, and preparedness for election day. The election day, marked as the third day of the delegation’s mission, was divided into two distinct parts. In the morning, the IPC delegates observed the process of vote casting, ensuring its transparency and integrity. They precisely monitored polling stations to ensure compliance with electoral regulations and observe that every eligible citizen was exercising their democratic right freely. Once the vote-casting time was ended, the IPC delegation continued its commitment to observing the electoral process by visiting the polling stations to observe the vote-counting process. The vote-counting process was held in a very transparent way, showing the ballot paper and counting the votes of representatives in front of observers. The International Parliamentarians Congress would like to extend its gratitude to the Electoral Commission of Thailand for the opportunity to observe the Thai General Elections 2023. The IPC reaffirms its commitment to fostering transparent and inclusive democratic practices worldwide. The findings and observations made during the mission will be compiled into a comprehensive report, which will be shared with the relevant stakeholders and the general public in due course.