Lok Speaker Om Birla has appointed Gaurav Gogoi, Jorhat MP and Assam Congress president, as the President of the India-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group, which has been established for the 18th Lok Sabha. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance India’s parliamentary engagement with over 60 countries, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and exchanges among legislatures to complement traditional diplomacy. The Parliamentary Friendship Groups, comprising Members of Parliament from various political backgrounds, aim to facilitate direct communication with global counterparts, sharing legislative experiences and fostering trust through ongoing interactions. Countries involved include Sri Lanka, Germany, New Zealand, and more.
Speaker Om Birla has highlighted the significance of parliamentary diplomacy in bolstering India’s international presence, portraying the nation as a confident democracy eager to collaborate. The initiative promotes participatory foreign engagement through structured exchanges like dialogues and study visits, further solidifying India’s role as a bridge between nations. This concept of multi-party representation reflects an inclusive approach to national interests, demonstrating India’s unity in diverse political ideologies post-Operation Sindoor. Ultimately, the formation of these friendship groups marks a vital development in India’s proactive international outreach strategy. (EOM)