BRICS Nations United in Building a Multipolar World, Says Russian Duma Speaker Volodin

Addressing the plenary session of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi, Volodin said the grouping brought together countries with different political systems, economic models and traditions, but shared a commitment to cooperation based on mutual respect.

“We represent countries with different political systems, economic models, and traditions. But we are united in building a multipolar world, respecting different approaches and national legislations, and recognising the right of each state to a sovereign path of development,” he said.

The two-day forum brought together parliamentary representatives to discuss strengthening the role of legislatures in promoting people-centred development and maintaining stable state institutions.

Volodin Highlights BRICS’ Economic Role

Volodin said BRICS had emerged as an important component of the evolving multipolar international order over the two decades since its establishment.

He described the grouping as a major economic centre representing the interests of a large section of the global population. According to figures cited in his address, intra-BRICS trade had reached $1.2 trillion, while member countries accounted for nearly a quarter of global exports.

He also said BRICS contributed approximately 40 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP), underlining the importance of parliamentary cooperation in strengthening the grouping’s effectiveness.

“The relations between our countries within BRICS are an example of effective cooperation, where sovereign states work on mutually beneficial terms, developing their economies and improving the well-being of their citizens,” Volodin said.

He urged parliamentary representatives to use the forum to identify opportunities for cooperation and share approaches that could improve the functioning of the grouping.

Russian Speaker Proposes BRICS Expert Council on AI

Volodin also proposed establishing an expert council on artificial intelligence (AI) within BRICS, bringing together specialists to exchange legislative practices and address challenges arising from the technology.

He said such a body could help member countries share experience in developing laws and regulatory frameworks for AI.

“This will allow us to share best legislative practices,” he said, adding that AI offered opportunities but also presented challenges that required coordinated attention.

Volodin stressed that technological development should remain focused on serving people and cautioned against allowing AI systems to exert control over humanity.

He called for steps to address potential risks before they become more difficult to manage.

Volodin Meets PM Modi, Emphasises India-Russia Ties

Earlier on Monday, Volodin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration of the parliamentary forum in New Delhi. He also conveyed greetings and best wishes from Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Volodin began his working visit to India on Sunday and held bilateral discussions with foreign counterparts on the sidelines of the BRICS meeting.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, further meetings with Indian parliamentary representatives were planned during the visit.

The ministry described Russia-India relations as a privileged strategic partnership rooted in friendship, trust and mutually beneficial cooperation, and highlighted the role of parliamentary engagement in strengthening bilateral ties.

“Relations between Russia and India constitute a privileged strategic partnership, rooted in traditions of friendship, trust and mutually beneficial cooperation. It is important to contribute to developing and strengthening these relations through parliamentary cooperation,” the ministry said.

The parliamentary forum provides a platform for BRICS members to discuss legislative coordination, economic cooperation and shared approaches to emerging global challenges.