P a g e | 38 Article 33: Safeguard Provisions The provisions of this Convention shall not be interpreted in a manner that is inconsistent with the relevant principles of international law, including international customary law. Article 34: Settlement of Disputes 1. Any dispute arising from this Convention shall be settled amicably through direct negotiations between the State Parties concerned. 2. Where the dispute cannot be resolved through direct negotiation, the State Parties shall endeavour to resolve the dispute through other peaceful means, including good offices, mediation and conciliation, or any other peaceful means agreed upon by the State Parties. In this regard, the State Parties shall be encouraged to make use of the procedures and mechanisms for resolution of disputes established within the framework of the Union. Article 35: Signature, Ratification or Accession This Convention shall be open to all Member States of the Union, for signature, ratification or accession, in conformity with their respective constitutional procedures. Article 36: Entry into Force This Convention shall enter into force thirty (30) days after the date of the receipt by the Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union of the fifteenth (15th) instrument of ratification. Article 37: Amendment 1. Any State Party may submit proposals for the amendment or revision of this Convention; 2. Proposals for amendment or revision shall be submitted to the Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, who shall transmit same to State Parties within thirty (30) days of receipt thereof; 3. The Assembly of the Union, upon recommendation of the Executive Council of the Union, shall consider these proposals at its next session, provided all State Parties have been notified at least three (3) months before the beginning of the session; 4. The Assembly of the Union shall adopt the amendments in accordance with its Rules of Procedure;