Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of Russia's State Duma, on Monday, 26 October 2026, called on BRICS member nations to collectively build a multipolar world order, emphasising each state's right to a sovereign development path. Volodin made the remarks at the plenary session of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi, marking his first working visit abroad as Duma chairman.

Key Remarks at the Plenary Session

Volodin addressed delegates with a call for unity across diverse political systems. 'We represent countries with different political systems, economic models, and traditions. But we are united in building a multipolar world, respecting different approaches and national legislations, and recognising the right of each state to a sovereign path of development,' he said.

BRICS leaders at the plenary session reflected on strengthening the role of parliaments in people-centred development and the role of legislative bodies in maintaining institutional stability for long-term progress.

BRICS as an Economic Powerhouse

Volodin highlighted that, over its 20 years of existence, BRICS has emerged as one of the key pillars of the evolving multipolar global order. According to the Duma chairman, internal trade within the bloc has reached $1.2 trillion, and member countries account for nearly a quarter of global exports.

He added that BRICS is the main contributor to global GDP, accounting for approximately 40 per cent. 'The relations between our countries within BRICS are an example of effective cooperation, where sovereign states work on mutually beneficial terms, developing their economies and improving the well-being of their citizens,' he stated.

Proposal for a BRICS AI Expert Council

In a notable departure from diplomatic routine, Volodin proposed the creation of an expert council on artificial intelligence within the BRICS framework, comprising specialists from member nations.

'This will allow us to share best legislative practices... Artificial intelligence represents not only opportunities but also challenges today. We must remember this and do everything we can to ensure that artificial intelligence serves people. We must avoid situations where artificial intelligence begins to control humanity. This is a danger we must prevent in advance,' he said.

Volodin Meets PM Modi, Conveys Putin's Greetings

Earlier on Monday, Volodin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the inauguration of the forum and conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Duma chairman had arrived in India on Sunday and held bilateral discussions with parliamentary counterparts on the sidelines of the forum.

Russia's Foreign Ministry described the India-Russia relationship as a 'privileged strategic partnership, rooted in traditions of friendship, trust and mutually beneficial cooperation,' referencing the historic Druzhba Dosti framework. Meetings with members of the Parliament of India were also reportedly planned during the visit, according to the ministry.

Significance and What Comes Next

The forum arrives as BRICS faces growing scrutiny over its cohesion following recent membership expansion. Volodin's direct meeting with PM Modi, and his role as personal carrier of Putin's greetings, signals the priority Moscow places on the parliamentary dimension of India-Russia ties. The two-day forum is expected to produce a joint statement outlining legislative cooperation priorities across the bloc's expanded membership.