PM Modi Attends 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, Interacts with Foreign Delegates in New Delhi

The forum brings together parliamentary representatives from BRICS member and partner countries to discuss strengthening cooperation among legislatures and advancing people-centric development.

The gathering includes presiding officers and parliamentary leaders from participating nations, Union Ministers, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, presiding officers of state legislatures, Members of Parliament and other dignitaries.

Om Birla Calls for Greater Parliamentary Cooperation

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla chaired the meeting and welcomed the visiting delegations, emphasising the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and cooperation among BRICS countries.

Addressing the inaugural session, Birla said the participation of parliamentary delegations from BRICS nations in India, the world’s largest democracy, represented an opportunity to strengthen their shared commitment to cooperation.

He said the forum reflected a collective commitment to democratic values, mutual trust and constructive engagement among participating countries.

Birla also noted that the BRICS Parliamentary Forum is marking its 20th anniversary this year. He highlighted the grouping’s expanding reach and its growing capacity to influence global developments and international relations.

According to the Lok Sabha Speaker, BRICS countries together account for nearly half of the world’s population, approximately one-third of its landmass and a substantial share of the global economy and international trade.

He said these factors underscored the grouping’s collective strength as well as its responsibility in addressing international challenges.

“BRICS countries may differ geographically, culturally, linguistically, and socially, but our shared responsibility toward democratic values and humanity binds us together,” Birla said.

Speaker Highlights Role of BRICS in Amplifying Global South’s Voice

Birla also referred to the joint statement adopted unanimously at the BRICS Summit held in New Delhi under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s chairmanship, describing its adoption as a significant achievement and thanking member nations for their cooperation.

Emphasising the role of parliamentary diplomacy, he said legislatures could help build trust between countries, reduce international tensions and promote peaceful solutions to global challenges.

The Speaker further highlighted BRICS’ potential to strengthen the representation of developing countries in international discussions.

“BRICS has the ability to become an empowered voice of the Global South. We have to make sure that our ambitions are not just limited to mere discussion, but should also be practical and achievable,” he said.

The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum is focused on deepening engagement among member and partner countries, with discussions aimed at translating shared priorities into practical cooperation through parliamentary channels.