A/RES/60/253 International Conference, and noting the follow-up work conducted by the InterParliamentary Union in the field of enhancing parliamentary democracy, Stressing that democracy, development and respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms are interdependent and mutually reinforcing, Reaffirming that democracy is a universal value based on the freely expressed will of people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all aspects of their lives, Reaffirming also that while democracies share common features, there is no single model of democracy and that it does not belong to any country or region, and reaffirming further the necessity of due respect for sovereignty and the right to selfdetermination, Considering the major changes taking place on the international scene and the aspirations of all peoples for an international order based on the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, including the promotion and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all and other important principles, such as respect for the equal rights and self-determination of peoples, peace, democracy, justice, equality, the rule of law, pluralism, development, better standards of living and solidarity, Bearing in mind that the activities of the United Nations carried out in support of Governments to promote and consolidate democracy are undertaken in accordance with the Charter and only at the specific request of the Member States concerned, Taking note with satisfaction of the seminars, workshops and conferences on democratization and good governance convened in 2004 and 2005, including those held under the auspices of the International Conference of New or Restored Democracies, Taking note of the views expressed by Member States in the debate on this question from the fifty-eighth to the sixtieth session, Noting that a considerable number of societies have recently undertaken significant efforts to achieve their social, political and economic goals through democratization, good governance practices and the reform of their economies, pursuits that are deserving of the support and recognition of the international community, Noting with satisfaction that the Sixth International Conference of New or Restored Democracies will be held in Doha from 30 October to 1 November 2006, Stressing the importance of support by Member States, the United Nations system, the specialized agencies and other intergovernmental organizations for the holding of the Sixth International Conference, Having considered the report of the Secretary-General, 4 1. Takes note with appreciation of the report of the Secretary-General,4 and invites Member States to consider the proposals contained therein; 2. Invites Member States, the relevant organizations of the United Nations system, other intergovernmental organizations, national parliaments, including in _______________ 4 2 A/60/556.