The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee received the first copy of a book "Indian Parliamentary Diplomacy- Speaker’s Perspective” written by Smt. Meira Kumar, former Speaker, Lok Sabha at a function in Rashtrapati Bhavan today (March 19, 2015). The President received the book from Smt. Sumitra Mahajan, Speaker, Lok Sabha who formally released it.
Speaking on the occasion, the Presidentcongratulated Smt.Meira Kumar for bringing out the book"Indian Parliamentary Diplomacy- Speaker’s Perspective”.He said that each one of us can learn a number of lessons from her observations in the book.
The President said to his mind the Office of Speaker is very crucial.The Parliament portrays the will of the people.The basic tenet of Parliamentary system is the representation of people in Parliament. The Speaker is the custodian of the rights, privileges and performance of the representatives of people in the Parliament who represent the spirit and aspirations of the vast multitude of people of the country.
The President saidParliamentary diplomacy has become important andthese days a crucial work being undertaken by the Speaker is carrying diplomatic work through attending various international conferences and bilateral visits.
The book is an account of the role of parliamentary diplomacy in furthering foreign policy and strengthening international relations. The volume is a collection of reports and select speeches that Smt. Kumar as Lok Sabha Speaker and leader of Indian Parliamentary Delegations delivered at international conferences and during her visits abroad.
This release issued at 2015 hrs.