Discussing Parliament’s role in establishing peace and security

28 January 2009

A New Zealand delegation will participate in an international parliamentary conference on peace building to be held at Westminster, London, beginning on 31 January 2010.

Organised by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the conference will examine the fragility of states and will address policy making for peace and security through cross-government partnerships and international engagement.

Leader of the delegation Moana Mackey MP, Labour, and Jacqui Dean MP, National, will contribute to various workshops throughout the five-day conference. The parliamentarians will also visit Northern Ireland to learn firsthand how public confidence in a political system can be rebuilt after conflict.

“State fragility impacts on regional and global stability and is a concern calling for cooperation at all levels,” Moana Mackey said.

“This conference provides an excellent opportunity to address issues that are important for New Zealand, particularly in relation to our involvement with aid and security stabilisation in both the Pacific and the wider international environment.”