Skopje, 28 September 2023 (MIA) — Parliament Speaker Talat Xhaferi spoke about the consequences of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and the role of national parliaments in Ukraine’s reconstruction during the Council of Europe's European Conference of Presidents of Parliament held in Dublin, Ireland.

"Today we have gathered here not only as our countries' representatives but also as guardians of justice, peace and values that connect us as a global community," Parliament Speaker Xhaferi said.

He noted that the topic of discussion "has weight that extends beyond our immediate concerns."

"It speaks of our commitment to respecting the principles of international law, human rights and the sanctity of nations," Xhaferi pointed out.

The consequences of the Russian war against Ukraine, he said, reverberated worldwide, leaving behind a trail of destruction beyond the infrastructural damage.

"As we address the consequences of this war," he pointed out, "we also need to recognize the critical role that national parliaments play in shaping Ukraine's future narrative."

"As lawmakers, we have been given the duty to shape the course of our nations' destinies. Today, we are expanding this responsibility to include a broader vision. A vision of solidarity that knows no borders, a commitment to help a nation in trouble," he said.

Ukraine's resilience, he continued, was proof of "the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people and the values they hold."

In his speech, Xhaferi urged nations to offer not only sympathy but also unwavering support to Ukraine.

He described the Council of Europe's Action Plan for Ukraine as "a comprehensive roadmap for resilience, recovery and reconstruction.

"But let's not forget," Xhaferi said, "that the success of these efforts depends on our commitment and ability to turn dialogue into resolute action."

Noting that threats to peace transcended traditional borders, Xhaferi said the role of Parliaments "in maintaining democratic security and rules-based multilateralism cannot be underestimated."

"The shadow of hybrid warfare and the specter of instability point to the importance of our collective vigilance. By fostering partnerships, sharing knowledge and responding to new challenges together, we can safeguard our societies' foundational principles," he said.

More than 350 delegates are attending the European Conference of Presidents of Parliament, which is held every two years under the auspices of the Strasbourg-based Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, hosted this year by the Houses of the Oireachtas, the Irish Parliament.

The first European Conference of Presidents of Parliament was held in 1975. It takes place every other year, in Strasbourg or in a host country. Topics on the agenda include prominent political issues. mr/