India, Brazil strengthen strategic ties, PM Modi highlights trade, technology, and global cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Lula da Silva held a joint press conference in New Delhi on Saturday, underscoring the deepening strategic, economic, and technological ties between India and Brazil.

‎Welcoming President Lula and his delegation, PM Modi said, “It gives me great pleasure to welcome President Lula and his delegation to India. The warmth and cordiality with which you welcomed me in Brazil last year, I reciprocate with the same spirit here in India today. This gives me special satisfaction. India and Brazil have long benefited from President Lula’s vision and inspiring leadership.”

Advertisement

‎Highlighting the personal rapport between the two leaders, he added, “In the past few years, I have had the privilege of meeting him several times, and in every meeting, I have felt his deep friendship and trust towards India. President Lula’s visit has also added lustre to the historic AI Impact Summit and has given new energy to our strategic partnership. I express my gratitude to the President for his friendship and commitment to the India-Brazil relationship.”

‎India and Brazil have emerged as strong trade partners, with Brazil being India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. PM Modi emphasised, “We are committed to taking our bilateral trade beyond 20 billion dollars in the next five years. Our trade is not just a number; it is a reflection of trust.” He also noted that the large business delegation accompanying President Lula reflects this very confidence.

‎The Prime Minister spoke about the expansion of the India-Mercosur trade agreement, saying it will further strengthen economic cooperation.

‎‎“Our collaboration in technology and innovation is significant not only for both countries but also for the entire Global South. I am happy that we are working to establish a Centre of Excellence in Brazil for Digital Public Infrastructure,” PM Modi said. He also highlighted priority areas including artificial intelligence, supercomputing, semiconductors, and blockchain, stressing that “technology must be inclusive and must become a bridge for shared progress.”

‎‎Energy cooperation has been a strong pillar of India-Brazil relations. PM Modi said, “Along with hydrocarbons, we are accelerating collaboration in renewable energy, ethanol blending, and sustainable aviation fuel. Brazil’s active participation in the Global Bio-Fuel Alliance reflects our shared commitment to a Green Future.”

‎Brazil has also proposed co-chairing the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which PM Modi welcomed: “Brazil’s extensive experience in this field will make a significant contribution to strengthening the CDRI.”

‎‎The two countries recently signed an agreement on critical minerals and rare earths. PM Modi described it as “a major step towards building resilient supply chains.” Defence cooperation continues to grow as well, exemplifying “mutual trust and strategic alignment.” He affirmed that India and Brazil will continue to strengthen this “win-win partnership.”

‎‎PM Modi also outlined initiatives in agriculture and animal husbandry to meet future needs. “Cooperation in climate-resilient agriculture, precision farming, and bio-fertilisers will strengthen food security in both countries. Establishing a Centre of Excellence in Brazil for oilseeds, pulses, and integrated farming will be a key step in this direction.”

‎In health and pharmaceuticals, he said, “We will work to increase the supply of affordable and quality medicines from India to Brazil. At the same time, Ayurveda and traditional medicine will also be expanded in Brazil to promote holistic healthcare.”

‎‎On the international stage, India and Brazil have consistently worked together to amplify the voice of the Global South. PM Modi stated, “When India and Brazil work together, the voice of the Global South becomes stronger and more confident. We believe that every problem must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. India and Brazil are united in their view that terrorism and its supporters are enemies of humanity. We also agree that reform of global institutions is extremely necessary to address the challenges of the present time.”