A proclamation from the steps of Parliament by Premier Jennifer Smith yesterday marked Bermuda's observation of International's Women's Day.

Ms Smith said the day is designated by the United Nations and is an initiative started more than twenty years ago to honour women's rights and to focus international attention on peace efforts.

This year the theme is the plight of Afghan Women.

In the House of Assembly Ms Smith commented on the situation in Afghanistan by saying: "We share their joy in release from past suffering with their recent liberation from oppression."

Ms Smith went on to praise the crucial contributions made by Bermuda women including in the political arena.

She said: "Today we have an opportunity to remember those women who have provided powerful positive role models for this and future generations." She named a list of women who have been active in Bermuda politics.

Ms Smith also announced that Government is planning to host an international conference for women in order to encourage women's political development and to enable other women world leaders to share their experiences of political life and governance.

Telecommunications Minister Renee Webb is heading the committee planning the conference.