Our Bureau
New Delhi
The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum concluded in New Delhi on Tuesday with a joint declaration condemning cross-border terrorism, terror financing and safe havens for terrorists, while calling for zero tolerance towards terrorism and reforms to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to ensure greater representation of the Global South.
The declaration, adopted by consensus at the two-day forum held on October 26 and 27, also urged countries to end double standards in counter-terrorism efforts and strengthen international cooperation to address security challenges.
The participating parliamentarians strongly condemned the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed. They called for coordinated action against terrorist activities and their support networks, along with the swift finalisation and adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the UN framework.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, addressing the concluding session, said lasting solutions to global challenges could be achieved through dialogue, peace and cooperation rather than conflict. He emphasised the need for respect for national sovereignty, peaceful settlement of international disputes and equitable development opportunities.
The declaration also endorsed comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, including the Security Council, to make global governance more representative, democratic and effective. It stressed the importance of amplifying the voice of developing nations in international decision-making.
The forum, held under the theme ‘Fostering Parliaments for People-Centric Development’, brought together parliamentary representatives from BRICS member countries and partner nations. Discussions covered parliamentary cooperation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and sustainable development.
The declaration highlighted the potential of responsible artificial intelligence and digital technologies to improve parliamentary efficiency, while stressing the importance of data privacy, security and accountability.
Participants also called for stronger climate action and cooperation on sustainable development.
At the conclusion, Birla handed over the BRICS Parliamentary Forum chairship to China, which will lead the grouping in 2027. The forum reaffirmed the role of parliaments in promoting peace, accountability and people-centric governance.