THE South African parliament has lauded the 9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum as a seminal moment, emphasising harmonious unity and collective ambition among the BRICS nations. I
n a statement released on Friday, the parliament expressed its profound support for the ongoing forum, which commenced in Johannesburg on Wednesday.
The statement highlighted the forum’s significance, characterising it as a progressive journey reflecting mutual dedication to strengthening global dialogues and alliances. It noted the adoption of a declaration and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the Forum as transformative miles
tones.
‘The adoption of the declaration and the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during this Forum mark significant and transformational milestones, reflecting our united vision to fortify relations within our nations, and importantly, with Africa, aiming to propel inclusive growth and sustainable development forward,’ the statement declared.
Furthermore, the statement hailed the historic signing of the MoU as a testament to the commitment to consolidating the BRICS Parliamentary Forum’s role as a hub for democratic parliaments in the Global South.
The South African legislature emphasised the paramount importance of enhancing multilateralism, with the United Nations playing a central role in championing sustainable development, human rights, and peace and security. These principles are based on mutual respect, justice, and equality.
‘Parliamentary diplomacy has been recognized as a catalyst in shaping a more equitable international order and revitalising the multilateral system,’ the statement added.
The statement also underscored the collective resolve of BRICS nations to implement the resolutions of the 15th BRICS Summit within their parliaments, strengthening the bloc’s prominence.
Highlighting the significance of robust parliamentary cooperation, the statement described the MoU as a transformative blueprint, ushering in a new era in the institutionalisation of the parliamentary dimension of BRICS cooperation.
Moreover, the statement emphasised the inclusive ethos of BRICS in welcoming new members and enhancing relations with diverse African parliamentary assemblies and national parliaments, fostering cooperation and shared progress.
The statement characterised the outcomes of the forum as ‘fruitful’ and reflective of a collective aspiration for global peace, equality, and sustainable prosperity.
According to the statement, the chairpersonship of the BRICS Parliamentary Forum is set to be transferred to the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation in 2024, signifying the continued commitment to international cooperation and progress.
