Bridgetown, Oct 10 (NationPress) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla engaged with Sue Lines, the President of the Australian Senate, during the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) in Barbados. Their discussions focused on the expanding strategic alliance between the two countries, which has markedly advanced since 2020.

Speaker Birla expressed his delight in meeting H.E. Sue Lines, stating, “Our conversation highlighted the continually strengthening ties between our nations, enhanced by platforms such as the G20 and the Commonwealth.”

He pointed out that this Comprehensive Strategic Partnership now encompasses vital areas including defence, trade, renewable energy, and science and technology, illustrating both nations' mutual dedication to a peaceful and prosperous world.

Stressing India's leadership in digital governance, Birla mentioned, “India is pioneering parliamentary innovation, implementing projects like the 'Digital Parliament' and AI-powered multilingual tools to boost transparency, efficiency, and accountability.” He also invited the Australian delegation to join the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC), set for January 2026 in New Delhi.

In another significant meeting, Birla conferred with Nelly Mutti, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, during the CPA Conference in Georgetown. He praised Zambia’s democratic progress and the vital role of parliamentary institutions in elevating citizens' voices. The leaders explored opportunities for enhanced collaboration through delegation exchanges and sharing legislative best practices.

Birla also held a bilateral meeting with Arthur Holder, Speaker of the House of Assembly of Barbados.

The discussions underscored the deep-seated friendship between India and Barbados, rooted in shared Commonwealth values, cultural bonds, and a mutual passion for cricket. “Our friendship is based on our shared culture and strong people-to-people connections,” Birla noted.

He commended Barbados for its decision to allow visa-free entry for Indian citizens and emphasized the vibrant presence of the Indian community in the Caribbean nation.

During a visit to the National Assembly of Barbados, Birla admired the intricately crafted teakwood Speaker’s Chair, a gift from India in 1966. “It symbolizes our lasting friendship,” he remarked, while addressing potential collaboration in education, culture, and renewable energy.

Earlier, on Thursday, Birla chaired a workshop at the conference, where he advocated for the ethical and inclusive application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in legislative frameworks. He highlighted the necessity of utilizing technology to bridge the digital gap and create more citizen-centric parliaments.