Baku: Speaker of Azerbaijan's Milli Majlis, Sahiba Gafarova, delivered a speech as a guest of honour at the event 'The Role of Youth in Parliamentary Cooperation' held at the Headquarters of the Non-Aligned Movement Youth Organisation (NAMYO) on September 14. Gafarova emphasized Azerbaijan's contributions to the Non-Aligned Movement during its four-year chairmanship.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Speaker Gafarova noted that Azerbaijan's leadership occurred during significant global challenges, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic. Under President Ilham Aliyev's leadership, Azerbaijan played a crucial role in demonstrating solidarity within the Non-Aligned Movement and showcasing its operational capabilities during the pandemic. The country initiated an online summit and a special UN General Assembly session on COVID-19 and facilitated equal access to vaccines for nations in need.

Gafarova further mentioned that under Azerbaijani chairmanship, the Non-Aligned Movement prioritized strengthening its international role and institutional development. She highlighted the emergence of the Non-Aligned Movement Youth Network and Parliamentary Network, developed at the initiative of President Aliyev. The Youth Network's transformation into a Youth Organisation was a significant milestone in this development.

The Speaker elaborated on the distinct yet complementary roles of the Non-Aligned Movement Youth Organisation (NAMYO) and the Parliamentary Network (NAMPN). While one serves as an international platform for youth, the other unites the parliaments of Non-Aligned Movement Member States. The NAMPN, established during the 143rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Madrid in 2021, has expanded its international cooperation and held five conferences across different countries.

In conclusion, Gafarova emphasized the importance of NAMYO and NAMPN as active bodies that represent the enduring legacy of Azerbaijan's chairmanship, serving the future of the Non-Aligned Movement.