More than 2,000 delegates from 159 member states have gathered in Arusha, Tanzania, for the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. Running from October 5 to 9, 2026, the global summit focuses on good governance, inclusivity, and sustainable development under strict logistical preparations.
The 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union kicked off in Arusha, marking the first time Tanzania has hosted the prominent international parliamentary gathering according to the outlet’s reporting. Preparations culminated with confirmations from 159 out of the organization’s 183 member states as local organizers finalized logistics at the Arusha International Conference Centre.
Tanzania Welcomes Delegates For International Parliamentary Summit
Parliamentary delegations touched down in Tanzania ahead of the official opening sessions. Ambassador Anda Filip arrived at Kilimanjaro International Airport to step into her role as the first woman to lead the IPU Secretariat in the institution’s 137-year history following her April election in Istanbul. Greeting Ambassador Filip upon her landing were Hoyce Temu, Tanzania’s Ambassador assigned to the IPU Geneva Desk, and Daniel Eliufoo, who chairs the National Technical Preparatory Committee.
National Assembly Speaker Mussa Azzan Zungu reported that 2,003 delegates were already streaming into the region while inspecting venue arrangements on Friday, October 2, 2026. The high turnout represents 149 confirmed countries at that stage of the arrival window.
Nepal Submits Climate Emergency Proposal
Speaker of the House of Representatives Dol Prasad Aryal led a seven-member Nepali delegation departing Kathmandu via Doha on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Nepal plans to table an emergency resolution addressing Himalayan climate disasters after coordinating with more than 50 nations through the Foreign Ministry. Comprising the Nepali delegation are Ambika KC, spouse of the Speaker; Rabin Mahato, a member of the House of Representatives; alongside Jhakku Prasad Subedi and Anjan Shakya, who both serve as National Assembly members. Furthermore, the group includes Padma Prasad Pandey, Federal Parliament Secretary-General; Prakash Adhikari, Secretary of the House of Representatives; Rekha Upadhyay Khanal, Joint Secretary at the Federal Parliament Secretariat; and Madhu Mijar, the Speaker’s private secretary.
“I will use the assembly to highlight the impacts of climate change internationally. Although Nepal has made a negligible contribution to global carbon emissions, it has suffered significant losses from climate-related disasters. I will raise the issue before speakers and lawmakers from around the world.”
Dol Prasad Aryal, Speaker of the House of Representatives
Speaker Aryal also highlighted the inclusive makeup of the Nepali delegation, noting that more than 37 per cent of its members are under 40 years old alongside strong representation from marginalized groups. Following the conclusion of the assembly, the Nepali delegation will depart for Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, for an official visit at the invitation of Kenyan Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Business Owners Promote Local Trade in Arusha
Tanzanian officials emphasized that the summit offers an economic boost extending well beyond conference halls. Speaker Zungu urged local business owners to showcase export-ready goods such as Tanzanite, cashew nuts, and Maasai handicrafts to visiting entrepreneurs and policymakers.
“Many of those coming are businesspeople and politicians who are also involved in business. They need various products, and Tanzania has many products with great potential to find markets.”
Mussa Azzan Zungu, Speaker of the National Assembly
Hotels, tour operators, and transport providers anticipated widespread commercial gains as delegates occupy lodging and utilize local services across the municipality.
Indian Delegation Joins Global Agenda Discussions
An Indian parliamentary delegation led by Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh joined the assembly to contribute perspectives on sustainable development, artificial intelligence, counter-terrorism, and ocean protection. The five-day schedule covers panel workshops on human rights, maritime security, and democratic governance.
Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Abdallah Possi noted that hosting the 153rd Assembly demonstrates the nation’s organizational readiness for large-scale international gatherings.