Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: During the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh outlined the steps taken by India to combat child abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and violence.
The Indian delegation, led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, participated in the event. Members from both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha were part of the delegation.
India’s Commitment To Accountability and Democratic Strengthening
Speaking at a special session on the implementation of IPU resolutions and decisions, Harivansh emphasized India’s initiatives to improve accountability and strengthen democratic processes.
He stated that India has implemented a comprehensive strategy to tackle child abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and violence, including signing bilateral agreements and participating in multilateral initiatives.
Harivansh added that India has established robust institutions like a strong parliamentary democracy, an independent judiciary, the Election Commission, and the Comptroller and Auditor General to fortify its democratic system.
Engagement With Global Leaders and Bilateral Meetings
During his five-day visit to Tashkent, the Deputy Chairman participated in the main proceedings of the assembly and the Governing Council meeting. He held bilateral meetings with presiding officers and heads of state from various countries.
The Indian delegation also paid a courtesy visit to Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Both sides highlighted their deep-rooted ties and stressed enhancing bilateral relations.
India was among the first countries to recognize Uzbekistan’s sovereignty after its independence, formalizing diplomatic relations on March 18, 1992.
India’s Cultural and Educational Connect With Uzbekistan
Harivansh and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla held bilateral meetings with delegations from Armenia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and other countries. Discussions were focused on areas of mutual interest.
The Indian delegation visited the memorial of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in Tashkent.
Harivansh also participated in community programs with Indian expatriates and students of Samarkand State University. He reiterated the importance of the Indian community as a bridge between the two nations, emphasizing that “people-to-people connection is the soul of our enduring relationship.”
Highlighting the role of education, Harivansh expressed pride that India Study Centers have been established in 15 universities in Uzbekistan, showcasing India’s commitment to promoting its rich culture and languages.
Delegation Members
The Indian delegation included MPs Bhartruhari Mahtab, Anurag Singh Thakur, Vishnu Dayal Ram, Aparajita Sarangi, Dr. Sasmit Patra, Ashok Kumar Mittal, Kiran Choudhary, Lata Wankhede, Bijuli Kalita Medhi, Utpal Kumar Singh (Lok Sabha Secretary-General), and P.C. Modi (Rajya Sabha Secretary-General).
