Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlighted the enduring relationship between India and the United Kingdom, emphasizing the shared commitment to democracy and democratic values. Speaking after a meeting with UK House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Birla expressed hope for further strengthening strategic ties between the two nations.
“India and the UK have a long and deep relationship. Both countries believe in democracy and democratic values. During my meeting with the Speaker of the House of Commons, we discussed enhancing Parliamentary proceedings and capacity building for MPs,” Birla stated.
Innovations in Indian Parliament Praised
Speaker Hoyle appreciated India’s advancements in parliamentary innovation, particularly the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Birla underscored the importance of fostering fast-paced discussions between the two parliaments to enhance democratic processes and cooperation.
“Many innovations in the Indian Parliament, especially in AI, have been lauded by Speaker Hoyle. Through parliamentary diplomacy, we aim to strengthen democratic practices and make our institutions more accountable to the people,” Birla noted.
Focus on Global Leadership and Development
Earlier, Birla congratulated Hoyle on his re-election and shared insights into India’s role as the “world’s largest and most vibrant democracy.” He highlighted India’s 75-year journey of economic and social development since adopting its Constitution.
“As India celebrates 75 years of its Constitution, we reflect on transformative changes and our growing role in global peace and stability. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is becoming a major manufacturing hub, and the world looks to India for economic growth and stability,” Birla said.
Birla also praised the Election Commission of India’s record of conducting free and fair elections and noted the increasing participation of women in the electoral process as a testament to the inclusiveness of Indian democracy.
Strengthening Parliamentary Ties
Calling for enhanced parliamentary cooperation, Birla stressed the importance of exchanging knowledge, best practices, and experiences between Indian and UK parliaments. He advocated for increased interaction between youth and women parliamentarians of both nations.
“We aim to foster closer ties through regular exchanges and collaborations. Such efforts will deepen mutual understanding and benefit both our nations,” Birla added.
CSPOC Chairmanship and Global Vision
On January 10, Birla will chair the meeting of the Standing Committee of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in Guernsey. The event precedes India’s hosting of the 28th CSPOC in 2026. During this meeting, Birla will engage with counterparts from other Commonwealth nations to discuss shared challenges and opportunities.
Birla emphasized India’s vision for becoming a developed nation by 2047, driven by the Constitution’s guiding principles. “India’s Constitution has enabled transformative socio-economic changes, and we aspire to be a developed country by 2047,” he said.
Strengthening Ties Over Lunch
During a lunch hosted by Speaker Hoyle at the Palace of Westminster, Birla expressed optimism about the visit fostering closer parliamentary and people-to-people ties.
In a post on X, Birla wrote, “India and the UK share a deep and special relationship rooted in mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a commitment to human dignity and the rule of law. I am confident this visit will further strengthen the friendly ties between our parliaments and people.”
The visit reaffirms the longstanding partnership between India and the UK, with both nations committed to deepening their strategic and democratic collaborations in the years to come.
