The AIPA Executive Meeting and the 9^th AIFOCOM Meeting to Combat the Drug Menace, set to commence today, July 9th 2012, was preceded with a welcome reception dinner hosted by Chairman of the Committee for Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Hon. Dr. Surahman Hidayat.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Chairman stated his expectation that ASEAN parliamentary cooperation would be strengthened and able to contribute to a better future of the countries in the region. In addition, he also mentioned the reason why Yogyakarta was chosen as the city that represents Indonesia in holding the two meetings. Being the first capital of the country, the city plays an important role in shaping the history of Indonesia. Several years ago, the city was struck by massive earthquake, however the spirit of its people has enabled it to ensure smooth and prompt reconstruction.

Closing his remarks, Mr. Chairman invited all participants to explore the city and experience the rich culture of Yogyakarta in their free time between meetings. Delegates from all ten AIPA Member Countries, including Indonesia as the host country, attended the AIPA Executive Meeting and the 9^th AIFOCOM Meeting. The former is held as a preparatory stage for the 33rd AIPA General Assembly, while the latter discusses means through which parliamentarians can contribute in creating Drug Free ASEAN in 2015. Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Myanmar are among the countries of which the Speaker of the Parliament attends the meetings.