NEW DELHI, Feb 3: The longstanding and resilient friendship between India and Russia exemplifies cooperation and diplomacy for the world, according to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. He emphasized the “historic and deeply entrenched friendship” that characterizes the bilateral relationship, which is regarded as highly significant on the global stage, as stated in an official announcement.
Birla remarked on the centuries-long ties, noting that Russia has been India’s closest ally since independence. His comments were made during the visit of a Russian Parliamentary delegation led by Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, at the Parliament House on Monday.
He congratulated Russia on its successful chairmanship of BRICS in 2024 and recalled his participation in the BRICS Parliamentary Summit in St. Petersburg the same year. Birla highlighted that such exchanges are crucial for enhancing parliamentary processes and deepening bilateral relations, according to the statement.
Additionally, he provided insights into India’s Parliamentary Committee System, describing these bodies as “mini parliaments” that conduct in-depth examinations of budgetary issues and critical matters.
He underscored the non-partisan approach of the committees, which fosters comprehensive discussions that may be restricted in the larger House due to time constraints and the vast array of issues.
In reflecting on India’s 75th year as a Republic, Birla looked back on the country’s journey since independence and the visionary contributions of the Constitution’s framers in ensuring equality for all citizens. He shared with the visiting delegation the advancements India has made in upholding Constitutional values over the years.
Birla also pointed out the solid cooperation between the Parliaments of India and Russia, citing regular interactions at various levels, including multilateral forums such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the BRICS Parliamentary Forum, and the G20. He emphasized that mutual trust and respect play a crucial role in further fortifying India-Russia relations, which have evolved into a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership that encompasses political, strategic, and cultural cooperation.
