In a significant stride towards reinforcing regional cooperation, Bhutan is set to make its mark at the 15th Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) Plenary in Baku from February 18 to 20. The delegation, led by National Assembly Speaker Lungten Dorji, will join parliamentarians from over 30 countries and international organizations in discussions themed “Role of Parliamentary Diplomacy in Strengthening Multilateral Cooperation in Asia.”
During the three-day event, Speaker Dorji is scheduled to address the plenary, emphasizing Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable development, peace, and enhanced bilateral ties. “This platform is an invaluable opportunity for us to advocate for our national priorities and contribute to broader regional strategies,” Dorji remarked ahead of the meeting.
Accompanying the Speaker is Kinzang Wangchuk, a Member of Parliament from Drametse-Ngatshang, along with several senior government officials. Together, they aim to engage with global peers, share insights on parliamentary diplomacy, and help craft resolutions that advance human rights, humanitarian values, and peaceful coexistence across Asia.
Key sessions at the assembly will focus on the nomination of candidates for the upcoming APA Presidency for the 2026-2027 term and discussions on new memberships. Delegates will also review resolutions from the four Standing Committees—Social and Cultural Affairs, Budget and Planning, Economic and Sustainable Development, and Political Affairs—before adopting the final Baku Declaration and the APA Secretariat’s comprehensive report.
Established in 2006 as a continuation of the dialogue initiated by the Association of Asian Parliaments for Peace in 1999, the APA has continually served as a vital forum for exchanging ideas, fostering legislative cooperation, and building a network of parliamentarians committed to peace and sustainable development.
Officials from Bhutan’s National Assembly Secretariat expressed optimism about the session. “Our participation will not only bolster our existing international relationships but also pave the way for more robust parliamentary engagement and diplomacy in the region,” a spokesperson stated.
As the 15th APA Plenary unfolds in Baku, Bhutan’s delegation looks forward to contributing to the dialogue on multilateral cooperation and setting the stage for a more interconnected, peaceful future in Asia.
