Terrorism Biggest Threat to Civilization and Development: Om Birla

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 27th May: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has termed terrorism, in any form, as the gravest threat to civilization and human development. Addressing a Sri Lankan parliamentary delegation at the Parliament House today, Birla stressed that “a threat to one country or region is a threat to humanity.” He called upon all democratic nations to unite against the global menace of terrorism with a common strategy and front.

The Sri Lankan delegation, led by Deputy Speaker and Chairman of Committees Dr. Rizvie Salih, is in India for a week-long capacity-building programme organized by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE).

Welcoming the delegation, Birla highlighted the deep-rooted cultural, spiritual, and civilizational ties between India and Sri Lanka. He thanked the visiting team for standing in solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism.

Reflecting on India-Sri Lanka cooperation, Birla cited recent developments in fintech and connectivity, particularly the UPI-based payment systems and enhanced ferry and air services between the two nations.

Birla also underlined the Indian Parliament’s increasing use of digital and AI-based technologies to enhance public participation and ensure greater transparency. “The Parliament of India is empowering its legislative processes through technology and building stronger democratic accountability,” he stated.

He expressed satisfaction that PRIDE has conducted capacity-building initiatives for officials and parliamentarians from over 110 countries and hoped the ongoing programme would deepen Sri Lankan lawmakers’ understanding of Indian parliamentary mechanisms.

Dr. Rizvie Salih expressed gratitude for the warm reception and noted the enduring historical and civilizational bond between the two countries. He thanked India for its consistent support during Sri Lanka’s challenging times and conveyed wishes from the people of Sri Lanka to the Parliament of India.

Lok Sabha Secretary General Utpal Kumar Singh was also present on the occasion.