Last Updated on October 26, 2026 2:06 pm by INDIAN AWAAZ
Andalib Akhter
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today said that parliaments could play a vital role in strengthening mutual understanding and trust, reducing international tensions and finding peaceful solutions to global challenges. Addressing the inaugural session of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi, Mr Birla highlighted challenges such as regional conflicts, wars, economic instability, trade tensions, terrorism and climate change. He stressed the need for solutions that improve citizens’ lives and contribute to a more inclusive and peaceful world.
Mr Birla expressed confidence that the deliberations at this forum will give a new direction to the mutual trust and cooperation and further strengthen the shared commitment to people-centric development. He said, together, this forum will build a parliamentary partnership that creates new opportunities for peace, prosperity, and sustainable development and contributes to fulfilling the aspirations of the people. The Speaker added that BRICS aspires to strengthen the voice of the Global South. Mr Birla said that the unanimous adoption of the Joint declaration at the BRICS Summit held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a major achievement. Mr Birla underlined that the aspirations of BRICS countries must not remain confined to deliberations but must translate into concrete policies and practical cooperation.
Lok Sabha Speaker Birla underlined that the parliaments have a responsibility to understand the aspirations of young people, provide space for their voices, and connect their talents with nation-building. He said, the true strength of parliamentary diplomacy lies in incorporating a democratic perspective into international relations while respecting one another’s sovereignty.
Describing India as the mother of democracy, Mr Birla highlighted that India’s democratic strength lies in dialogue, diversity of opinions and mutual respect. He noted that through this democratic foundation, India is steadily advancing on its development journey. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also attended the inaugural session of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum at the Central Hall, Samvidhan Sadan, Parliament House. Mr Modi also met the leaders of the visiting delegations.
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh described India as a repository of knowledge, wisdom and civilizational heritage, reflecting its rich diversity of cultures, languages and traditions. Mr. Harivansh said BRICS, representing nearly half of the world’s population, has emerged as an effective multilateral platform for consultation and cooperation on issues of global and regional significance.
He said that under India’s BRICS Presidency in New Delhi this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has advanced a transformative vision centred on people and humanity. He also highlighted India’s efforts to strengthen the voice of the Global South and promote reforms in global governance, contributing towards a more balanced multipolar world order. Referring to the theme of the inaugural session, Fostering Parliaments for People-Centric Development,
Earlier, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla welcomed the leaders of the parliamentary delegation of eleven BRICS Member countries and 10 Partner countries. The two-day event will conclude tomorrow.