Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Dr Nelly B K Mutti has noted that the world faces a myriad of complex challenges, including conflict, inequality and climate change, among others, that threaten future generations.
Speaking when she addressed the General Assembly at the 152nd Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly and Related Meetings in Istanbul, Turkiye, which is being held under the theme, “Nurturing Hope, Securing Peace and Ensuring Justice for Future Generations,” Speaker Mutti stated that the ongoing war in the Middle East was a reminder of the devastating cost of conflict on humans: lives lost, families displaced and hope dimmed for many children.
She said that the role of parliamentarians in preventing conflict and promoting dialogue, supporting global calls for ceasefires and peaceful resolution of disputes, was more relevant today than ever.
Dr Mutti stated that Zambia believes in the power of peace, unity and co-operation.
“Guided by our national values of dignity, equity and justice, we have made strides in promoting stability and prosperity. We know from our own history that peace is built through tolerance, dialogue and a commitment to the common good. Nurturing hope begins with strengthening democracy, protecting freedoms and ensuring that the rule of law prevails,” she said.
Speaker Mutti said that Zambia remains committed towards the maintenance of peace and stability within its borders, across the region and at global level, and emphasised that Zambia has long upheld a legacy as a peaceful nation and a champion of dialogue, mediation and regional co-operation through active participation in regional and international bodies.
She, therefore, called upon IPU Member Parliaments to harness their collective strength to address global challenges, promote human rights, and ensure that every child – whether in Africa, Europe, Asia, America or the Middle East – can inherit a world of peace, opportunity, and hope.
“As we deliberate during this Assembly, let us reaffirm our commitment to working together across borders and political divides. The decisions we make today will shape the world that future generations will inherit”, she said.
Speaker Mutti assured the IPU Assembly that Zambia stood ready to continue working with fellow Member Parliaments of the IPU to nurture hope, secure peace and ensure justice for all.
The Zambian delegation to the 152nd IPU Assembly and Related Meetings, led by Speaker Mutti includes: Mr Harry Kamboni, MP, Mr Mubita Anakoka, MP, Mr Imanga Wamunyima, MP, Ms Jacqueline Sabao, MP Mr Nicholas Mukumbi, MP, Mr Oliver Amutike, MP and the Acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Mrs Loveness M Mayaka.
