Declaration

Strengthening democracy and pursuing sustainable and fair economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region, 7-8 October 2011

Convened in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on 7-8 October 2011 the SI Asia-Pacific Committee:

In discussing the national situation in countries of the region, has reiterated that a democratic environment is required to promote the social democratic agenda, allowing equal rights to flourish.

The Committee recognises the tireless service of the Socialist International and commends its incessant endeavours towards furthering the social democratic agenda. It strongly believes that the SI, having 160 member parties from around the world, is a global organisation which must continue forward with its agenda taking into account all realities prevalent across the world and ensuring a balanced participation of all member parties in all its structures.

On Pakistan:

As a key ally in the war against terrorism, Pakistan has suffered the most losses of any country in the world. Despite this, the Pakistan Peoples Party continues to protect its progressive agenda and remains committed to eliminating terrorism and to making the future of Pakistan terror free.

Given Pakistan’s pivotal role and numerous sacrifices in this war in the greater interest of the region and the world, it is imperative that Pakistan’s struggle be recognised and acknowledged. As a member of the Socialist International, the Pakistan Peoples Party has undauntedly moved forward with its democratic agenda and continues to carry forth the struggle of Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto who laid down her life to uphold social democratic values.

On the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand:

The SI Asia-Pacific Committee welcomes the efforts made by the governments of Cambodia and Thailand in the border conflict between the two countries and supports the peaceful dialogue in place to restore peace and stability based on international law as well as their commitment to comply with the decision taken by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on that question;

It equally welcomes the fact that both parties involved have refrained from using force since the new government in Thailand came into power and urges both sides to respect the decisions of the ICJ in relation to withdrawing armed forces from the provisional demilitarised zone around the temple of Preah Vihear.

The Committee congratulates Cambodia on its 20th anniversary celebrating the Paris Peace Accord signed on 23 October 1991 between Cambodian political parties with the presence of the UN and 18 governments as signatory parties.

On Burma/Myanmar:

The SI Asia-Pacific Committee is highly encouraged by the positive developments taking place in Burma/Myanmar since the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and expresses its hopes that these will turn into a decisive move towards democracy.

The Committee extends its full support to Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy in their efforts for a peaceful transition towards genuine democracy with full respect of the rights and freedoms of the people of Burma.

The Committee calls for the immediate release of all remaining prisoners of conscience in the country and for the recognition of all political parties and their right to be involved in the national reconciliation process.

On Timor Leste:

The Committee congratulates Timor Leste for consolidating peace and stability and FRETILIN for successfully holding direct elections of its leadership as part of the overall process of strengthening political parties in the region as fundamental actors in a democratic society.


 

______________________