West Tripura Lok Sabha MP and former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb is set to visit New York as a member of India’s Parliamentary Delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Deb’s visit is scheduled from October 5 to 9, during which he will participate in engagements linked to the UNGA and India’s parliamentary representation at the global forum.

The 81st UNGA is set to focus on a range of major international concerns, with India highlighting priorities including the developmental interests of the Global South, climate change and development financing, combating terrorism, artificial intelligence, maritime security, peacekeeping, sustainable development and reform of the United Nations.

According to India’s 81st UNGA Priorities Paper released by the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, New Delhi has reiterated its commitment to playing an active role in the UN system while giving greater prominence to the developmental priorities and concerns of countries in the Global South.

Deb’s inclusion in the Indian Parliamentary Delegation assumes significance as part of India’s broader parliamentary diplomacy at the international level. His visit is expected to provide opportunities for interaction and exchange of views on issues of global importance, while also presenting India’s perspective on key international matters.

Issues such as sustainable development, international cooperation, the concerns of the Global South, emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, counter-terrorism, and global peace and security are expected to remain closely linked to India’s priorities at the 81st UNGA.

The visit is also expected to further underline the role of parliamentary engagement in advancing India’s international outreach and strengthening dialogue on issues of shared global concern, according to Deb’s office.