Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is leading an Indian Parliamentary Delegation (IPD) to the 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, a two-day event beginning Thursday in St. Petersburg, Russia.
The forum is themed 'Role of Parliaments in Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,' focusing on the crucial role parliaments play in fostering multilateralism and addressing global challenges.
The Indian delegation accompanying Speaker Birla includes notable figures such as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Rajya Sabha MP Shambhu Sharan Patel, Lok Sabha Secretary General Utpal Kumar Singh, and Rajya Sabha Secretary General PC Modi, along with other officials. Their collective presence signifies India's commitment to enhancing inter-parliamentary cooperation within the BRICS framework.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Birla posted on X about the significance of the visit, highlighting the aim to strengthen inter-parliamentary cooperation with BRICS and the invited countries. He also mentioned his eagerness to connect with the vibrant Indian diaspora in Russia during the visit.
During the forum, Speaker Birla is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with Parliament Speakers from other countries on the sidelines of the event. These meetings will provide a platform for discussing bilateral and global issues, presenting India's stance on relevant matters, and exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation. Birla will also engage with Indian expatriates in Moscow, fostering a sense of connection and solidarity.
Birla's participation in the plenary session will involve presenting his views on two critical sub-topics: 'BRICS Parliamentary Dimension - Possibilities of Strengthening Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation' and 'Role of Parliaments in Overcoming Threats Related to Fragmentation of the Multilateral Trading System and the Consequences of Global Crises.'
His insights will contribute to the broader discussions on how parliaments can play a pivotal role in addressing global challenges and fostering cooperation.
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh will also play a significant role at the forum, addressing two sub-topics during the plenary session. He will speak on the 'Role of Parliaments in Increasing the Efficiency of the System of International Relations and Ensuring Its Democratisation' and 'Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation in Humanitarian and Cultural Fields.' His contributions are expected to enhance the dialogue on how parliaments can contribute to a more efficient and democratic international system.
The forum will culminate in a joint statement, reflecting the collective commitment of the participating countries to the themes discussed. The BRICS Parliamentary Forum, apart from including the original BRICS countries, has expanded to welcome four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, Speakers and Parliament Members from invited countries such as Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, along with the Chairperson of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Tulia Aksen, will participate in the meetings, making it a significant multilateral event.
The participation of such a diverse group of countries underscores the importance of the BRICS Parliamentary Forum as a platform for fostering dialogue and cooperation among nations.
The discussions and outcomes of this forum are expected to contribute significantly to the global efforts in addressing key issues and promoting just and sustainable development.
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