Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met with Madagascar’s parliamentary delegation led by Justin Tokely, emphasizing India’s strong partnership with Madagascar as a vital ally. The discussion highlighted historical ties, humanitarian efforts, and the importance of democracy. Birla proposed capacity-building programs through PRIDE and encouraged closer cooperation in various sectors. Tokely expressed gratitude and admiration for India’s progress.
On Wednesday, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla emphasized India’s strong relationship with Madagascar during a bilateral meeting with a parliamentary delegation led by Justin Tokely, President of Madagascar’s National Assembly. He remarked that Madagascar is regarded as a trusted partner in line with India’s ‘SAGAR’ vision, which focuses on security and growth in the Indian Ocean region. Birla pointed out that this partnership significantly contributes to regional stability and economic prosperity.
During the meeting, Speaker Birla highlighted the historical ties between India and Madagascar, underscoring a shared legacy enriched with trade, culture, and mutual interaction. He referred to India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance, stating that India has actively engaged in disaster relief initiatives and projects to enhance Madagascar’s socio-economic landscape, consistent with its ethos of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam’.
The Speaker acknowledged the positive influence of the Indian Diaspora in Madagascar, which has fostered bilateral friendship. He expressed satisfaction over the success of the first ‘Jaipur Foot Camp’ in Madagascar, aiding numerous individuals with disabilities by providing artificial limbs. Furthermore, he presented India as the world’s oldest democracy, emphasizing its traditions and collective decision-making processes that date back thousands of years.
Birla reinforced that democracy is ingrained not just in governance but also within India’s cultural and spiritual identity. Highlighting the increased voter participation over the years, he noted that nearly 66 percent of voters participated in the 2024 general elections, reflecting the public’s growing engagement with the democratic process.
The Indian Parliament’s operations and budget session were also discussed. Birla introduced Madagascar’s delegation to the capacity-building initiatives by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE), expressing hope that these programs would enhance the capabilities of Madagascar’s legislators. He indicated interest in organizing tailored training sessions to address the specific needs of Madagascar’s parliamentarians.
Justin Tokely conveyed appreciation for the invitation and hospitality shown by the Indian Parliament. He recognized India’s impressive economic growth and technological prowess, while expressing interest in closer cooperation related to agriculture, maritime security, healthcare, and education between the two countries. The delegation, having arrived in India on Monday, also observed the proceedings of the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, where they were warmly welcomed by the Speaker.
In conclusion, the bilateral meeting between Speaker Om Birla and the Malagasy parliamentary delegation highlights the enduring friendship and collaborative spirit between India and Madagascar. Both nations share a commitment to mutual development and support, particularly through humanitarian assistance and cultural exchanges. Their discussions on democratic principles and capacity-building initiatives emphasize a robust partnership poised for future cooperation across various sectors.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com
