YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–The 99th Inter-Parliamentary Conference took place in the capital of Namibia Windhoek on April 6-11. An Armenian delegation was in attendance.
The agenda of the Conference included global politics–economic and social situations–prevention of conflicts and restoration of peace in countries emerging from war–return of refugees to their homes–strengthening of democratic processes and promotion of restoration of those countries–measures against AIDS–among several others.
The participants decided to hold the 100th Inter-Parliamentary Conference in Moscow.
At an April 15 news conference–chairman of the National Assembly’s standing Committee on Foreign Relations Hovhanes Igitian–who led the Armenian delegation–said that the Conference accepted an Armenian proposal as a resolution. The resolution follows: "The Inter-Parliamentary Conference
Condemns the use of force against peoples exercising the right to self-determination;
Urges the United Nations to assist the parties which suffered from the conflicts even if they are not internationally recognized;
Also urges the conflicting parties to start and conduct direct negotiations–since these negotiations are necessary and vital basis for seeking a peaceful solution;
Is confident that the development of democratic processes and free exercise of human rights are the most efficient mechanisms of conflict settlement–restoration of peace and trust in countries emerging from war."
According to Igitian–the experience shows that disrespect for the right of the peoples to self-determination leads to more grave consequences. "The approach is changing and it is recognized that the right of the peoples to self-determination cannot be totally ignored," Igitian said–adding that this is the first proposal by the Armenian side accepted by an international organization.