Dateline: October 26, 2026
Parliamentary delegations from 21 countries have arrived in New Delhi for the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, bringing together representatives of 11 BRICS member countries and 10 partner nations. The two-day event is being hosted by the Parliament of India on October 26 and 27.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet the Speakers and heads of the visiting delegations, while Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is presiding over the forum. The gathering aims to strengthen parliamentary cooperation and encourage dialogue on shared international priorities.
People-Centric Development at the Centre
The forum is being held under the theme “Strengthening Parliaments for People-Centric Development.” Discussions are designed to explore how parliamentary institutions can support inclusive development, improve governance and respond to emerging global challenges.
The agenda includes four key areas: resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability. Delegates are expected to discuss institutional strength, ethical artificial intelligence, digital transformation, global governance reforms and sustainable development.
AI, Digital Transformation and Global Governance
The growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital technologies is among the key subjects on the agenda. Parliamentary leaders will consider how legislative institutions can encourage responsible, human-centred innovation while addressing the challenges associated with technological change.
The forum will also examine parliamentary diplomacy, capacity building and opportunities to exchange legislative best practices. Bilateral and multilateral meetings are expected to provide opportunities for participating countries to discuss areas of mutual interest.
India’s Role in Parliamentary Diplomacy
Hosting the forum provides India an opportunity to facilitate dialogue among BRICS members and partner countries during its 2026 chairship. The event is expected to conclude on October 27 with the adoption of a joint statement and the handover of the forum’s chairmanship to China.
The discussions are intended to strengthen cooperation between legislatures and identify common approaches to development, sustainability and international governance.
