Context
Recently, the 13th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) adopted the Seoul Declaration in Seoul, South Korea, expressing concern over unilateral actions and reaffirming state sovereignty and territorial integrity.
About ICAPP
- Established: It was launched in Manila, Philippines in September 2000.
- Nature: A regional forum bringing together political parties across Asia, irrespective of their political ideologies.
- Objective: To promote mutual understanding, cooperation and dialogue among Asian political parties.
- Headquarters/Secretariat: Seoul, South Korea.
- General Assembly: ICAPP’s principal deliberative forum, held biennially on a rotational basis among member countries, unless otherwise decided by the Standing Committee.
- Membership: Membership is open to political parties in Asian countries that have democratically elected members in their respective national parliaments and the country concerned must be a Member State of the United Nations.
ICAPP and India
- India participates in ICAPP through its political parties.
- Indian political representatives have participated in the organisation’s deliberations and activities.
Key Highlights of the Seoul Declaration
- State Sovereignty: Reaffirmed the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.
- Non-Interference: Emphasised non-interference in the internal affairs of states.
- Peaceful Settlement: Called for peaceful resolution of international disputes.
- UN Charter: Stressed strict adherence to the principles of the UN Charter.
- Multilateral Cooperation: Expressed concern over unilateral actions, geopolitical rivalry and weakening international cooperation.
- International Legal Order: Warned that the threat or use of force and selective observance of international obligations could undermine confidence in the international legal system.
Significance of ICAPP
- Provides a platform for dialogue between governing and opposition political parties across Asia.
- Encourages political parties to influence their respective governments towards peaceful conflict resolution.
- Promotes regional peace, stability, reconciliation and international cooperation.
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP):
1. The General Assembly is the principal deliberative forum of ICAPP.
2. The General Assembly is held annually at a permanent venue designated by the Standing Committee.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation:
• Statement 1 is Correct: The General Assembly is the principal deliberative forum of ICAPP.
• Statement 2 is Incorrect: It is held once every two years on a rotational basis among member countries, unless otherwise decided by the Standing Committee.