New Delhi, Oct 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum on Monday and interacted with foreign delegates at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan in the Parliament House complex in New Delhi.
The forum has brought together parliamentary leaders and representatives from BRICS member and partner countries to strengthen legislative cooperation, promote mutual understanding and advance people-centric development.
The gathering is attended by presiding officers and parliamentary leaders, Union Ministers, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Harivansh, presiding officers of state legislatures, Members of Parliament and other dignitaries.
Om Birla Emphasises Cooperation and Democratic Values
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla chaired the meeting and welcomed delegates from BRICS member nations, stressing the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation in addressing shared challenges.
In his inaugural address, Birla described the participation of parliamentary delegations in India as a significant opportunity to reinforce their common commitment to collaboration.
He said the forum reflected a shared commitment to dialogue, mutual respect and democratic values, despite differences in geography, culture, language and social backgrounds.
Birla also noted that the BRICS Parliamentary Forum is marking its 20th anniversary this year, with the organisation expanding its reach and capacity to influence global developments and international relations.
BRICS Nations Share Global Responsibilities
Highlighting the collective significance of BRICS, Birla said the member nations represent nearly half of the world’s population, account for about one-third of the global landmass and hold a substantial share of the global economy and international trade.
He said these factors reflected the group’s collective strength as well as its responsibility in global affairs.
The Speaker emphasised that parliamentary engagement could help build trust among nations, reduce international tensions and encourage peaceful approaches to resolving global challenges.
According to Birla, legislators have an important role in fostering mutual understanding and creating opportunities for constructive dialogue across national boundaries.
Birla Calls for a Stronger Voice for the Global South
Birla underlined BRICS’ potential to amplify the voice of the Global South in international discussions, calling for practical action alongside shared ambitions.
He stressed that the group’s aspirations should translate into achievable initiatives rather than remain confined to discussions.
Referring to the unanimous adoption of a Joint Statement at the BRICS Summit held in New Delhi under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s chairmanship, Birla described the outcome as a significant achievement and thanked the participating member nations.
The parliamentary forum is expected to provide a platform for delegates to exchange perspectives, deepen cooperation and explore ways to respond collectively to global challenges.
Through discussions on parliamentary collaboration and people-centred development, the gathering seeks to strengthen engagement among BRICS countries and reinforce their role in international affairs.
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