May 12, Colombo (LNW): Efforts to deepen political and democratic cooperation between India and Sri Lanka received fresh momentum following a high-level meeting in New Delhi between Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and a visiting Sri Lankan parliamentary delegation led by Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj.
The discussions, held at Parliament House, focused on expanding collaboration between the legislatures of the two neighbouring nations, with particular emphasis on empowering women in governance and public leadership.
Sharing details of the meeting on social media platform X, Om Birla noted that both sides exchanged views on strengthening bilateral engagement through closer parliamentary interaction and institutional cooperation. He highlighted the enduring historical and cultural relationship between India and Sri Lanka, describing the partnership as one rooted in shared democratic traditions and longstanding regional ties.
Pleased to meet H.E. Ms. Saroja Savithri Paulraj, Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Government of Sri Lanka along with the women Parliamentary delegation from Sri Lanka at the Parliament House and engage with the distinguished members on strengthening bilateral ties and… pic.twitter.com/t1t15l0SE7
— Om Birla (@ombirlakota) May 11, 2026
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the meeting also explored avenues to enhance women’s participation in policymaking, leadership roles and national development initiatives. The delegation reportedly discussed the growing importance of inclusive governance and the need to create stronger opportunities for women to contribute to decision-making at every level of government.
Birla emphasised that parliamentary diplomacy continues to serve as an important bridge between nations, helping to promote democratic values, mutual understanding and regional stability. He further observed that stronger exchanges between lawmakers can pave the way for broader cooperation in areas such as education, social welfare and gender equality.
The Sri Lankan delegation welcomed India’s continued engagement with regional partners and expressed appreciation for ongoing cooperation in parliamentary training, democratic governance and women’s empowerment programmes.
Political observers say the meeting reflects a broader effort by both countries to reinforce people-to-people connections while advancing collaboration on democratic reforms and inclusive development across South Asia.