"Gone Down in History": Belarus Speaker Hails BRICS Forum for Sovereign Equality
Belarus Deputy Speaker Vadim Ipatov calls the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi a historic step toward a fair, multipolar world order.
The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, hosted in New Delhi, has been described as a landmark event that has "gone down in history," according to Vadim Ipatov, the Deputy Speaker of the Belarus House of Representatives. Speaking after the conclusion of the assembly, Ipatov praised the Parliament of India for organizing a "magnificent forum" that has laid the essential groundwork for a more equitable and multipolar international order.
A Vision for a New World Order
Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, Ipatov emphasized that the forum served as a powerful demonstration of the shared goals between BRICS member states and partner nations. He noted that the addresses delivered during the event highlighted a collective drive toward a world defined by mutual respect, cooperation, and good neighborliness.
"A world order where there is a place for mutual respect, good neighbourliness, and cooperation; where there is no place for dictating to other sovereign states how their peoples should live," Ipatov stated.
The Power of Parliamentary Diplomacy
Beyond the official diplomatic channels managed by Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ipatov underscored the unique value of parliamentary diplomacy. He argued that elected representatives bring a deeper, more authentic insight into their respective nations and are better positioned to learn and share best practices in legislation.
The forum provided a platform for several key interactions, including:
- Bilateral Meetings: Opportunities for delegates to discuss cooperation in humanitarian and socio-economic spheres.
- Legislative Exchange: Discussions on evolving legal systems to ensure they remain attuned to modern demands.
- Knowledge Sharing: Broadening mutual understanding between member parliaments to complement official state diplomacy.
"People Above All": Technology and Humanity
A central theme of the New Delhi deliberations was the intersection of technology and human welfare. As the forum tackled the rise of artificial intelligence and the rapid digitalization of the economy, Ipatov highlighted that these advancements must not overshadow the human element.
He noted that the defining idea of the entire gathering was "human-centricity," operating under the core motto: "People above all."
India's Leadership and the Road to China
The forum, which was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, concluded on Tuesday with the adoption of a Joint Declaration. Ipatov expressed high confidence in China's ability to host the next iteration of the forum, noting that India had set an exemplary standard for leadership and organization.
Key Outcomes of the Joint Declaration
The final declaration serves as a testament to the strategic priorities of the member nations, particularly reflecting India's diplomatic influence. The core pillars of the agreement include:
- Global Governance: An explicit endorsement of reforms to the UN Security Council to ensure the Global South is more representatively included.
- Sovereign Principles: A reaffirmation of the UN Charter, emphasizing non-interference in internal affairs and the peaceful resolution of international disputes.
- National Security: The inclusion of robust and uncompromised language regarding counter-terrorism, marking a significant diplomatic victory for India's security stance.