New Delhi witnessed a pivotal moment in India-Brazil relations as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed profound optimism about future collaboration during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Lula, on his sixth visit to India, described the nation as a digital superpower, complementing Brazil’s prowess in renewable energy.
‘India holds great promise for us,’ Lula stated emphatically. He highlighted the synergy between the two largest democracies of the Global South, bound by shared commitments to peace and multilateralism. Recalling his hosting of Modi in Brasilia last July, Lula noted landmark agreements in defense, food security, energy, digital transformation, and industrial partnerships that have elevated bilateral ties.
Both nations, rich in diversity and cultural industries, stand as vital voices in a turbulent geopolitical landscape. Lula stressed the need to deepen strategic dialogues, positioning India and Brazil as key players in the UN, WTO, and G20 to foster equitable global governance rooted in international law.
Referencing Modi’s remarks at the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Lula endorsed UN reforms, particularly expanding the Security Council to better represent Global South interests. He reaffirmed Brazil’s longstanding G4 commitment alongside India, Japan, and Germany for permanent seats, arguing it’s essential amid rising global challenges.
On the recent Pulwama attack, Lula condemned terrorism unequivocally, asserting it transcends religion or nationality and must not justify interventions outside international law. He reiterated Brazil’s dedication to peace in South America and offered solidarity to India.
The visit culminated in three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs): one on digital partnerships, another on rare earths and critical minerals, and a third on mining and steel supply chains. Both leaders set an ambitious target to boost bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in the next five years.
Earlier, Lula received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan with full Guard of Honour, greeted by PM Modi and President Droupadi Murmu. This partnership, Lula concluded, will fortify not just India-Brazil relations but also empower the Global South, averting new Cold War-like divides between superpowers.