Lok Sabha Speaker congratulates newly elected President of Korea; expresses hope for stronger bilateral ties

New Delhi– Lok Sabha Speaker  Om Birla  reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to its Zero Tolerance policy against terrorism during a meeting with a parliamentary delegation from the Republic of Korea, led by former Prime Minister Mr. Kim Boo Kyum, at Parliament House. Birla strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 innocent civilians lost their lives. He emphasized that such heinous acts shock the conscience of the international community.

The Speaker stated that, in light of Pakistan’s continued inaction against terrorist infrastructure on its soil, India exercised its sovereign right to respond. He briefed the delegation on Operation Sindoor, under which India’s response was measured, non-provocative, and aimed exclusively at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and neutralizing threats. He affirmed that under the leadership of Prime Minister  Narendra Modi, India’s Zero Tolerance policy is being implemented resolutely through robust legislation and capable institutions. He expressed hope for Korea’s continued support in India’s fight against terrorism.

Birla thanked the Republic of Korea for condemning the Pahalgam terrorist attack and conveyed appreciation to the Speaker of the Korean National Assembly for the message of condolence following the recent plane crash in Ahmedabad.

Birla congratulated the people of Korea on the successful conduct of their recent Presidential elections. On behalf of the Indian Parliament, he extended warm felicitations to the newly elected President, Mr. Lee Jae-myung. He expressed confidence that bilateral relations would grow stronger under President Lee’s leadership, noting with appreciation his earlier role as Chairman of the Korea-India Parliamentary Friendship Group. Highlighting the resilience of Korean democracy,  Birla said that India, as the world’s largest democracy, deeply values the shared commitment to democratic principles. He observed that both countries have vibrant parliamentary systems that reflect the aspirations and diversity of their peoples.

During the interaction, the Speaker informed the delegation that the Monsoon Session of Parliament will be held from 21 July to 21 August 2025, during which key national and global issues will be deliberated in addition to legislative business.

Underscoring the transformative role of technology in governance,  Birla said that the Indian Parliament has adopted cutting-edge digital tools, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, to enhance transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement. He conveyed India’s willingness to share this experience and technological expertise with the Republic of Korea to strengthen democratic institutions and processes.

Expressing satisfaction over the formation of a Korea-India Parliamentary Friendship Group in the Korean National Assembly, Birla informed that a corresponding group is being considered in the Indian Parliament. He hoped these mechanisms would further deepen parliamentary exchanges and mutual cooperation.

Concluding the meeting, Birla expressed confidence that India and Korea, as democratic partners in the Indo-Pacific, would continue working together to ensure peace, security, and economic progress in the region.