The 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC), inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, concluded today with a renewed commitment to making democratic institutions more people-centric. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla delivered the valedictory address at the three-day conference.
During the valedictory session, the Lok Sabha Speaker handed over the chairmanship of the 29th CSPOC to Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the UK House of Commons, and wished him success for the next CSPOC to be held in London. On this occasion, Om Birla noted that democratic institutions can remain strong and relevant when they are transparent, inclusive, responsive and accountable to the people. He observed that transparency fosters public trust by ensuring openness in decision-making, while inclusivity guarantees that every voice—especially those on the margins—is heard and respected in the democratic process. Together, these principles sustain the legitimacy of democratic institutions and strengthen the enduring bond between citizens and the State, he opined.
Recalling the vision behind the establishment of CSPOC 56 years ago, Om Birla said the Conference was conceived to ensure continuous dialogue among democratic legislatures of the Commonwealth and to explore new ways of enhancing parliamentary efficiency and responsiveness. He stated that the 28th CSPOC had carried this legacy forward with renewed vigour and substance.
The unprecedented participation of the largest number of countries in CSPOC’s history was highlighted by the Speaker as a defining feature of the Conference. This wide and inclusive representation, he said, would ensure that the New Delhi Conference is remembered as a significant milestone in the history of Commonwealth parliamentary cooperation.
