New Delhi, Oct 25: Parliament is all set to host the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum under the theme ‘strengthening Parliaments for people-centric development’, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi slated to meet leaders of visiting delegations.
On the eve of the two-day forum that begins on Monday, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met the Russian delegation led by State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin.
The Lok Sabha Secretariat said both sides stressed stronger cooperation at global forums and joint efforts against terrorism.
Birla thanked Russia for its consistent support on the issue and noted that the two countries will mark 80 years of diplomatic ties in 2027.
The speaker called for regular meetings of the India-Russia Inter-Parliamentary Commission and more delegation exchange, especially between young and women parliamentarians.
He also spoke about cooperation in nuclear energy and industry.
Citing India’s 2026 BRICS Presidency, Birla sought Russia’s active role in the grouping’s parliamentary cooperation, called for reform of the UN Security Council, and thanked Moscow for backing India’s bid for permanent membership.
Volodin called for joint business ventures and the removal of obstacles to trade and investment. He backed regular exchanges between the two legislatures, including through BRICS, and reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to cultural and humanitarian cooperation.
Birla also met parliamentary delegations from Cuba, Egypt, and Belarus.
The forum will hold a session each on Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.
A special meeting of the chairpersons of international affairs committees from BRICS member and partner countries will discuss parliamentary diplomacy, capacity building and best practices.
The programme also includes parallel meetings, bilateral exchanges, a cultural programme, and a banquet hosted by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, the Rajya Sabha Chairman. (PTI)
