Asaf Hajiyev

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Participation of Mr. Asaf Hajiyev, PABSEC Secretary General, in the 16th Plenary Session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA), Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, 25–28 January 2026

On 25–28 January 2026, the 16th Plenary Session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) was held in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, under the theme “The Role of Asian Parliaments in Strengthening Intercultural and Inter-civilizational Dialogue in Asia: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Pathways.” The Session brought together more than 190 delegates from 27 countries, including Speakers of Parliaments, heads of parliamentary delegations, and representatives of international and regional organisations. The programme of the Session also included meetings of the APA Committees.

At the opening ceremony, the participants were addressed by H.E. Mr. Ahmed bin Salman Al Musalam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and Mr. Mohammad Reza Majidi, Secretary General of APA. Ms. Sabiha Gafarova, Speaker of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, delivered an address, emphasizing the growing importance of intercultural and inter-civilizational dialogue as a key instrument for strengthening peace, stability, and mutual understanding in Asia amid current global challenges.

During the general debate, the heads and members of parliamentary delegations emphasized the significant role of the APA in addressing regional and global challenges and fostering closer cooperation among Asian parliaments. Emphasis was placed on the need to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy, promote mutual respect and understanding among different cultures and civilizations.

In his statement, Mr. Asaf Hajiyev, PABSEC Secretary General, highlighted the importance of advancing cooperation between PABSEC and the APA, noting the valuable contribution of inter-parliamentary dialogue to promoting intercultural understanding and building trust. He underscored the role of parliamentary cooperation as an effective tool for fostering constructive engagement, solidarity, and partnership among regions.

At the conclusion of the Session, the Manama Declaration was adopted, which reaffirms Asian parliaments’ commitment to dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and peace.

On the sidelines of the Session, Mr. Asaf Hajiyev, PABSEC Secretary General, met with Mohammad Reza Majidi, Secretary General of APA, and discussed the issues of further enhancing the cooperation between the PABSEC and APA.