BRICS parliamentary forum pushes for two-state solution amid West Asia tensions

Parliamentary leaders from the BRICS nations have expressed deep concern over rising tensions and hostilities in West Asia, condemning unilateral economic sanctions and coercive measures as contrary to international law. A joint declaration at the end of the two-day 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in New Delhi called for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Discussions And Absences

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla led the deliberations for the forum. The event saw the Iranian parliamentary delegation chief, Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf, cancel his India visit due to growing hostilities between Saudi Arabia and Houthi forces. Despite his absence, other regional policymakers attended, including Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Defence Affairs, Interior and Foreign Affairs Committee of the United Arab Emirates. Mr. Al Nuaimi spoke in favour of a two-state solution that recognizes Israel while supporting an independent Palestinian state.

Gaza And Terrorism

The joint declaration reaffirmed support for a peaceful resolution in the Gaza Strip based on two states living in peace and security, asserting the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and an independent, sovereign state. The declaration also condemned terrorism as criminal and unjustified, specifically condemning the April 22, 2025 terror strike in Kashmir's Pahalgam in the strongest terms, while calling for the finalisation of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN framework.

Context

The BRICS group brings together major emerging economies to strengthen cooperation on global political and economic issues. Parliamentary forums within this grouping allow lawmakers from member nations to discuss shared international challenges, regional security concerns, and diplomatic approaches to ongoing conflicts.