Deputy speaker stresses multilateralism, parliamentary diplomacy

Taipei, Aug. 29 (CNA) Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣) on Friday underscored the importance of multilateralism and parliamentary diplomacy in his remarks at the closing of the Asian-Pacific Parliamentarians' Union (APPU) General Assembly in Taipei.

Despite their diverse political, economic, and cultural backgrounds, delegation members engaged in open discussions on energy security, sustainable development, and critical infrastructure, Chiang said.

They ultimately reached consensus and unanimously adopted several resolutions aimed at advancing a shared vision of sustainability in the Asia-Pacific, he noted.

Attending on behalf of Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜), Chiang co-signed a joint communique with delegation heads from member and prospective member countries, as well as Eiichi Suzuki, secretary-general of the APPU Central Secretariat.

According to a Legislative Yuan release, the communiqué confirmed the passage of eight resolutions, including three proposed by Taiwan.

One of Taiwan's resolutions urged APPU members to join its Indo-Pacific Regional Marine Debris Collaboration Platform initiative to promote a sustainable marine environment.

The assembly also approved Japan as host of the 54th APPU General Assembly and 88th Council Meeting in 2026, with Palau to follow in 2027, the release said.

Chiang added that the event not only reflected the APPU's founding values of freedom, democracy and anti-communism, but also highlighted the growing relevance of multilateralism and parliamentary diplomacy in today's changing international landscape.

Founded in 1965 by lawmakers from Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and Thailand, the APPU aims to promote freedom and democracy as the basis for peace and prosperity in Asia.

The 53rd APPU General Assembly took place in Taipei on Thursday and Friday.