Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met parliamentary delegations from South Africa and Grenada in New Delhi yesterday. They are in India to participate in the Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference.
On this occasion, the delegation celebrated Lohri with the Lok Sabha Speaker and observed the custom of fire worship. The Speaker said that Indian festivals and cultural dialogue strengthen global fraternity, mutual respect, and human values.
The delegation was led by Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces of the South African Parliament, L. Govender, Vice-Chairperson Dr Annelie Lotriet, and President of the Senate of Grenada, Dr Dessima Williams.
During the meeting, cordial bilateral discussions took place between India and South Africa, focusing on strengthening democratic values, parliamentary cooperation, and mutual understanding. Both sides reiterated their commitment to advancing historic friendly relations and a strategic partnership. Mr Birla said the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela connects both countries through the values of democracy, social justice, and inclusion.
The Speaker described cooperation between India and South Africa as a strong foundation of trust and partnership between the two democracies. The two sides agreed on regular exchanges of parliamentary delegations and sharing legislative best practices.
