Nestor draws attention to Kohver, Ukraine at parliament speakers summit
Riigikogu Speaker Eiki Nestor called on world's parliament speakers to pay attention to the continuing war in Ukraine that is undermining the stability and security of the whole region.
Nestor gave an address at the World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in New York.
"In order for democratic transitions to occur and profound societal transformations to take place, a state needs a stable international system and a world order based on rule of law," Nestor noted in his speech. “Regrettably, there are still countries that, instead of strengthening the systems of global governance, are undermining the progress that the world community has made over the recent decades."
Nestor said that, during the last two years, Russia has violated international norms and agreements, increased the amount of troops and military exercises, and organized secret operations at its state borders. "One example of this is the case of Eston Kohver. Kohver is an Estonian security police officer who was abducted from the Estonian border last year and was sentenced to prison for 15 years two weeks ago," he added.
Nestor said that parliament speakers have to pay attention to the continuing war in Ukraine where Russia’s blatant disrespect for international rules causes suffering for the Ukrainian people and undermines the stability and security of the whole region.
“To counterbalance the world view that chooses autocracy over democracy, restraints over openness, and the interests of specific groups over those of the broader society, we need to be determined to strengthen the international framework of institutions and norms that help advance human rights and create free and responsible societies," Nestor said.
The Fourth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament organised by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), held at the UN Headquarters in New York from August 31-September 2, focuses on using democracy for the benefit of peace and on sustainable development.
During the visit lasting until 5 September, Nestor will also meet with the Honorary Consul of Estonia Anne-Reet Annunziata and the local Estonian community.
Editor: M. Oll