Meghalaya Speaker Participates in Major Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference
Shillong's representative took center stage at a significant international parliamentary gathering this week. Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma actively participated in the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth. This important event was hosted by the Parliament of India from January 14 to 16.
High-Level Inauguration and Distinguished Attendance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the high-level conference on Thursday. The ceremony took place in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson Harivansh Narayan Singh were all present for this notable occasion.
Om Birla chaired the entire conference proceedings. The 28th CSPOC brought together an impressive assembly of 61 speakers and presiding officers. These delegates represented 42 different Commonwealth countries. Representatives from four semi-autonomous parliaments also joined the discussions. This broad participation clearly underscores the event's substantial scale and genuine significance.
Meghalaya's Active Engagement in Global Dialogue
The Meghalaya assembly secretariat issued an official statement about the conference. According to their release, Meghalaya Assembly Secretary Malthus S Sangma also attended the meetings. This dual representation highlights Meghalaya's committed engagement in global parliamentary dialogue.
The state is actively working to strengthen democratic institutions. Modern legislative practices remain a key focus for Meghalaya's parliamentary representatives. Their participation demonstrates a clear desire to learn from international peers and share local insights.
Focus on Contemporary Parliamentary Challenges
Conference deliberations centered on pressing contemporary issues facing parliaments worldwide. Delegates examined the evolving roles of presiding officers in modern democracies. Technological innovation in legislative functioning received considerable attention.
Participants also discussed practical strategies to enhance citizen engagement with democratic processes. These conversations aimed to make parliamentary systems more responsive, transparent, and effective for ordinary people.
The conference provided a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and best practices. Meghalaya's involvement in such high-level discussions reflects the state's growing prominence in national and Commonwealth parliamentary affairs.
