NEW DELHI, October 26: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday called for greater dialogue, diplomacy and international cooperation to address global challenges, saying regional conflicts, terrorism and economic instability affect countries beyond their borders.
Inaugurating the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum at the historic Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan in New Delhi, Birla said parliamentary institutions could contribute significantly to strengthening mutual understanding, building confidence among nations and resolving disputes through peaceful means.
Addressing delegates in Hindi, the Speaker highlighted the growing importance of cooperation at a time when the international community is facing multiple challenges, including armed conflicts, trade tensions, climate change and economic uncertainty.
He emphasised that such problems cannot be addressed effectively through isolated national efforts, making sustained communication and collective action essential.
Birla said parliaments have a special responsibility to encourage constructive engagement between countries, reduce tensions and help create an environment conducive to peaceful conflict resolution.
The BRICS Parliamentary Forum brings together legislators from member countries to exchange views on shared concerns and explore opportunities for cooperation. The gathering provides a platform for representatives to discuss international developments, strengthen institutional ties and identify common approaches to emerging challenges.
Birla’s remarks underscored the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in complementing government-to-government engagement. Through discussions, exchanges of experience and legislative cooperation, elected representatives can help promote understanding between societies and support efforts to address issues affecting the wider international community.
The Speaker’s address also highlighted the interconnected nature of contemporary global challenges. Conflicts in one region can disrupt trade, affect energy supplies and create economic uncertainty elsewhere, while climate change and terrorism often require coordinated responses across national boundaries.
He called for dialogue and cooperation to remain central to international engagement, stressing the importance of peaceful solutions in addressing disputes and strengthening relations among nations.
The forum is expected to provide participating delegations with an opportunity to deliberate on common priorities and explore ways to enhance cooperation through parliamentary institutions.
Birla’s message placed emphasis on the role of dialogue in preventing misunderstandings, building trust and advancing collective efforts towards global peace and stability.