The Parliament of Georgia is currently hosting the 48th session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie (APF). The session includes meetings of various committees, including the Parliamentary Assembly Bureau, Committees, Young Parliamentarians, and Women Parliamentarian Networks. The official opening of the 48th Plenary Session will take place on July 7.
During the committee meetings, participants will discuss the current situation in member states, while members of the Parliament of Georgia will focus on the political environment in Georgia. It is worth noting that Georgia will be granted the status of an associate member of the Francophonie Parliamentary Assembly during this session, as announced by David Songhulashvili, the Head of the Georgian Parliamentary Delegation in the Assembly.
|The Francophonie is an organization that aims to promote unity and cooperation among French-speaking countries. Georgia has held observer status in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie for the past 20 years, and during this session, the country will be elected as an associate member. This is a significant step forward in strengthening the bonds between French-speaking countries. The association implies the enhancement of cultural and economic relations within this framework, which holds great importance for Georgia. Notably, France and other French-speaking countries in Europe, which are strong supporters of Georgia, are important members of the Francophonie Union”, - said David Songhulashvili.
The parliamentary delegations participating in the Assembly have voiced their support for Georgia"s European integration process and have expressed their willingness to elect the country as an associate member. Francis Drouin, the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of Francophonie, emphasized the significance of holding the session in Georgia, particularly in light of the current global events.
“All the foundations for our active cooperation have been laid today. I am glad that Georgia is hosting us, because parliamentary diplomacy is of essential importance”, - Francis Drouin stated.
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie plays an active role in promoting democracy and protecting human rights. It serves as a consultative parliamentary body within the International Organization of La Francophonie. Currently, it consists of 91 members, including 56 with full rights, 17 with associate status, and 18 with observer status. The Assembly serves as a platform for member states to exchange information, engage in dialogue, and collaborate on various issues.