The International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) on Friday (November 6, 2026) adopted the Seoul Declaration, expressing concern over unilateral actions and reaffirming state sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also calling for strict adherence to the principles of the UN Charter amid growing geopolitical tensions.
The plenary sessions of the Assembly, attended by representatives from Palestine, Iran, China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and others, saw discussions on contemporary conflicts, including in Palestine and Iran.
Though there is no reference to these conflicts in the declaration, members expressed “great concern” on unilateral actions, intensifying geopolitical rivalry and weakening international cooperation. It said non-interference in the internal affairs of states, the peaceful settlement of international disputes, and the equal status of all nations were essential to maintaining peace, stability and reconciliation. Answering a question from The Hindu on whether ICAPP can be a platform for mediation and conflict resolution in Asia, Chung Eui-yong, Chairperson of the ICAPP Standing Committee and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Korea, said ICAPP is a platform for dialogue between political parties and that parties can influence governments in moving towards peaceful settlement of disputes.
“We are not governments. Political parties represent people. What we can do is influence our governments. Chung. The assembly also welcomed the launch of the Inter-Continental Dialogue among Political Parties (ICDPP), an initiative aimed at bridging ideological differences and preventing the international community from fragmenting into competing blocs.
The governing as well as Opposition parties should put in their best effort to influence government policies and promote peace,” said Mr.
