The President of the IPU, Dr T Gurirab, reported on his activities since the 185th session of the Governing Council and on the activities of the Executive Committee. He highlighted the ongoing work in preparation for the 3rd World Conference of Speakers of Parliament. He also indicated the efforts of the IPU to ensure that the people of Haiti received the necessary international assistance after the earthquake that struck the country. In addition, he expressed solidarity with the people of Chile after the earthquake that struck their country. Lastly, he expressed dismay at recent developments in Niger.