Brasília, June 5 (H.S.): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla reiterated India's commitment to a fair, law-based global trade system that effectively represents the Global South's interests. Speaking at the BRICS Parliamentary Forum meeting in Brasília, he called for enhanced trade, investment, and financial cooperation among BRICS nations. Birla praised the expansion of BRICS as a means to foster more inclusive cooperation. He highlighted India's impressive economic growth over the past decade, moving from the 10th to the 4th largest economy despite global challenges, attributing this progress to sound policies and the youth's dynamism.

Over 65 percent of India's population is under 35, driving advancements in manufacturing, digital technology, healthcare, and green energy, allowing India to meet domestic demands while supplying skilled labor globally. He emphasized the importance of technology in promoting inclusive and sustainable development, showcasing initiatives like Digital India, Startup India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat as successful models. Additionally, Om Birla raised concerns regarding underrepresentation of developing nations in international institutions, suggesting that BRICS should work collectively to amplify the Global South's participation in these platforms. In bilateral discussions, he engaged with Brazil's Federal Senate President Davi Alcolumbre, emphasizing shared democratic values and cooperation.

Om Birla also condemned a recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 individuals, accusing Pakistan of not addressing the terrorist infrastructure on its territory. He affirmed India's right to defend itself. Additionally, Birla met with Brazil's Chamber of Deputies President Hugo Motta, noting strong bilateral relations and cooperation in defence, technology, space, energy, and culture as key areas of partnership between India and Brazil.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar