FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – A delegation of Sri Lankan parliamentarians has traveled to Pakistan to participate in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Asia Regional Conference, culminating in the adoption of the Karachi Declaration. During the conference, the participating delegations reaffirmed their shared commitment to democratic governance, constitutionalism, parliamentary accountability, inclusivity, responsible innovation, and sustainable peace.
The conference emphasized the necessity for transparent, participatory, and forward-looking parliaments to effectively address challenges such as declining public trust, misinformation, social exclusion, climate vulnerability, and rapid technological change. This is to be achieved through cooperation and parliamentary diplomacy.
The event brought together presiding officers, parliamentarians, and parliamentary officials from across Asia and Southeast Asia, including representatives from Pakistan, the Maldives, and Malaysia. The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih and included members Arkam Ilyas, Ajith Agalakada, Sujeewa Dissanayake, and Sujith Sanjaya Perera.
Deputy Speaker Salih addressed the forum, stating, “Modern parliaments must function as institutions that listen, promote dialogue, and strengthen accountability through transparency, inclusive oversight committees, anti-corruption mechanisms, and youth engagement.”
(Colombo/Feb12/2026)
