Bilateral relations between India and Barbados gain a new dimension – Birla
The Sunday Mail
Bridgetown, Barbados: On the occasion of the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Barbados, an Indian parliamentary delegation led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid a formal visit to the National Assembly of Barbados. Mr. Birla and members of the Indian parliamentary delegation were welcomed by Arthur Holder, Speaker of the House of Assembly of Barbados. On this occasion, members of the delegation and Barbados parliamentarians discussed strengthening mutual cooperation, sharing democratic values, and enhancing partnership on global platforms.
Mr. Om Birla also visited the historic Speaker’s Chair installed in the Barbados Parliament, which was gifted by the Government of India to commemorate Barbados’ independence in 1966. This Speaker’s Chair symbolizes the deep historical and cultural ties between India and Barbados. Made from Indian teakwood, the bench was hand-carved by twelve Indian artisans over a period of approximately one year. The inscription on the bench reads *From the People of India to the People of Barbados*, reflecting the enduring spirit of affection, cooperation, and friendship between the two countries.
On this occasion, Mr. Birla emphasized that the democratic traditions, parliamentary systems, and shared values of India and Barbados are bringing the two countries closer. He described this historic monument as a “living example of India-Barbados friendship.” Both sides agreed to explore new opportunities in the areas of education, culture, renewable energy, and parliamentary cooperation. Parliamentarians from both sides agreed that the visit of the Indian Parliamentary delegation led by Mr. Birla is an important step towards further strengthening bilateral relations between India and Barbados.
During his visit to Barbados, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla interacted with the Indian diaspora living there. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Birla said that the Indian diaspora has built a strong identity and reputation around the world through their hard work and honesty. He further stated that the Indian community in Barbados celebrates festivals like Diwali, Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Navratri together, strengthening community bonds. Mr. Birla stated that the teachings of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, emphasizing dharma, satya, and duty, guide the Indian diaspora.
Mr. Birla encouraged those present to maintain a positive image of India through their actions. He also called upon the new generation to teach Indian languages and share their culture with their children, ensuring that Indian culture lives on for generations. During the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, Mr. Birla held bilateral meetings with the Presiding Officers of other legislatures participating in the Conference.
The meeting between Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and His Excellency Mr. Arthur Holder, Speaker of the House of Assembly of Barbados, discussed ongoing cooperation in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, G-77, and CARICOM, where both countries support equitable and inclusive reforms. The meeting also discussed opportunities for enhanced parliamentary cooperation, emphasizing regular exchanges of delegations, adoption of best legislative practices, and the use of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence to promote more inclusive and people-centered legislatures. Mr. Birla invited His Excellency Mr. Holder to participate in the 28th CSPOC to be held in New Delhi in January 2026. A cordial bilateral meeting was also held with Her Excellency Ms. Nellie Mutti, Speaker of the House of Assembly. Mr. Birla noted that India and Zambia have long-standing friendly relations, and both sides are exploring new avenues for enhanced parliamentary cooperation, including regular exchanges of delegations and sharing of best legislative practices. Shri Birla also shared India’s experience in using technology and artificial intelligence to make parliamentary processes more people-centric.
