Monegaque delegates launched the annual OSCE Forum on Thursday 5th July. Copyright: OSCE

The five day conference brings together over 50 different nations in an attempt to combat ensuing issues and provide a space for political negotiations and decision making as well as addressing conflict prevention, crisis management and post conflict rehabilitation.

Three main areas will be discussed by attending parliamentarians over the course of the conference and Speaker of the National Council of Monaco Jean-François Robillon was keen to stress that "all participating states have a valued voice".

The OSCE is the world's largest regional security organisation and was created with the intention of establishing a comprehensive and positive approach towards handling politico-military, economic, environmental and human security issues.

"The Principality of Monaco is very proud to welcome to Annual Session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, whose debates will shape the future of worldwide populations," said Monaco's Prime Minister Michel Roger, adding, "We are honoured that the parliamentarians of the member states have chosen Monaco to host such an important session."

While the international meeting officially began Thursday 5th July, Friday saw a more local topic to the top of the agenda. "Reading about foreign affairs or watching a revolution from afar is not enough these days," said Monegasque representative in the OSCE Jean-Charles Gardetto. On 6th July, a Mediterranean Forum has been organised and will create an environment where members of the Mediterranean nations can converse and compare ideas concerning their common ground.

With speakers travelling from countries such as Algeria, Israel and Libya, Gardetto went on to say, "I'm proud that Monaco can this week be the bridge that can build relationships with new leaders in the Middle East and North Africa."

Former US presidential hopeful John McCain is expected to attend one of the discussions on the weekend.

Elsa Carpenter