The announcement of formation of Friendship Groups by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has added a new energy to Indian parliamentary diplomacy. The plan to hand over the leadership of these groups to experienced MPs, from young MP Shrikant Shinde to senior leader P. Chidambaram, indicates generational coordination within Parliament and cooperation across party lines. The main objective of this initiative is to strengthen relations between the parliaments of India and different countries. The global political and economic landscape is changing rapidly. In such a situation, the role of Parliament-to-Parliament Diplomacy has become more important than before. Through “Friendship Groups”, Indian MPs will be able to establish direct communication with their foreign counterparts, which will increase understanding and cooperation on international issues.
These groups will act as a soft-diplomacy platform parallel to formal government talks, where MPs can have informal but meaningful discussions. This will support India’s foreign policy objectives at the grassroots level and strengthen India’s voice and influence on global forums.
Bridge of generations in Parliament
The specialty of this initiative is that young and first-time MPs are being given the responsibility of leadership along with senior and experienced leaders. For example, while young MP Shrikant Shinde will bring fresh thinking, technical understanding and modern approach, leaders like 80-year-old P. Chidambaram will provide guidance with decades of parliamentary experience and diplomatic understanding. This model not only reflects the balance of experience and energy, but also encourages a culture of mentorship within Parliament. With this, young MPs will be able to understand the nuances of international relations and make India’s diplomatic role more effective in the future.
What are friendship groups?
Parliamentary Friendship Groups are informal forums through which MPs develop relationships with representatives of different countries. Their aim is to increase cooperation at many levels. Will present India’s soft power and democratic values globally.
Message of inclusive leadership and collaboration
Handing over the responsibility of leadership to everyone from young MPs to senior leaders shows that experience and innovation are important in Indian democracy. Both are being given equal importance. This initiative also gives the message of rising above party politics and giving priority to cooperation and dialogue.
