Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has been appointed a member of the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s Task Force on the peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine war.
Speaker Bagbin was appointed by the President of IPU in a letter written by Secretary-General Martin Chungong.
Tanzanian Tulia Ackson cited Mr Bagbin’s integrity, impartiality and ability “to build trust with all parties”.
“We are confident that your leadership and experience will enhance the work and impact of the Task Force in its mission to support diplomatic efforts in seeking a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine,” Mr Chungong’s letter stated.
The Task Force is to use its good offices to encourage dialogue between parliamentarians in Ukraine and Russia.
“Since its formation, the Task Force has convened no less than thirteen meetings and conducted a mission to Kyiv and Moscow in July 2022,” a statement issued by Director of Media Relations of the Parliamentary Service, David Sebastian Damoah, said.
“It has also held separate consultations with parliamentary delegation from Ukraine and Russia every six months during IPU Assemblies.”
Speaker Bagbin’s inclusion is said to position the Task Force for renewed resolve to broker peace in Ukraine.
He is expected to attend in-person meetings during IPU Assemblies, participate in hearings and discussions with the Ukrainian and Russian IPU delegations, and dialogue with government leaders from the feuding countries with the ultimate aim of dousing the war in Ukraine.
Mr Bagbin will join seven other distinguished parliamentarians on the Task Force.