Bermudian parliamentarians have the chance to learn from their overseas counterparts at a meeting of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Premier Dr. Ewart Brown said yesterday.

The Premier was one of a number of speakers at the opening ceremony of the six-day CPA executive committee meeting in the House of Assembly.

Dr. Brown said: "The CPA promotes the advancement of parliamentary democracy by enhancing knowledge and understanding of democratic governance and by building an informed parliamentary community. As parliamentarians in Bermuda, we are justifiably proud of all that our Island has to offer and we value our links with our parliamentary counterparts throughout the world. We also welcome any opportunity that allows us to strengthen our parliamentary networking relationships.

"Our success as individual countries often depends on opportunities to cultivate partnerships and collaboration with others who bring a broad range of political and cultural backgrounds to the table. Meetings such as this also provide an opportunity for us to learn about each other and to share past experiences and solutions."

Opposition Leader Kim Swan said Bermuda and the world would be best served if leaders show love for their neighbour.

Senate President Carol Bassett, who chairs the Bermuda branch of the CPA, said it was fitting that Bermuda should host the event in the year it celebrates its 400th anniversary.

CPA executive committee chair Mohd Shafie Apdal said he and fellow members were grateful for the chance to see Bermuda, albeit for a shorter stay than they would like.

Throughout the next few days, Dr. Brown and Governor Sir Richard Gozney will host receptions for the overseas contingent, which includes general secretary William Shija, from London, and people representing more than 175 Commonwealth parliaments and legislatures, from 53 Commonwealth countries comprising two billion people.

The meeting is being held to finalise plans for the CPA's plenary conference in Tanzania in five months.