Speaking at a joint press conference in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi described the growing trade relationship as a “reflection of trust” between the two largest democracies of the Global South.
Trade Expansion and Strategic Vision
Brazil remains India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. Both leaders agreed to take bilateral trade beyond the $20 billion mark, reinforcing economic engagement across sectors. Prime Minister Modi emphasised that trade between the two nations reflects mutual confidence and shared aspirations rather than just numbers.
The leaders also discussed expanding the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement to unlock new business opportunities. A large Brazilian business delegation accompanied President Lula, underlining growing commercial interest between the two economies.
Rare Earths and Critical Minerals Deal
A major highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in rare earth elements and critical minerals. The agreement aims to strengthen supply chains at a time when global concerns over resource concentration and trade disruptions are rising.
Prime Minister Modi termed the pact a crucial step toward building resilient supply networks. The agreement will promote collaboration in exploration, processing and sustainable sourcing of critical minerals, which are essential for advanced manufacturing, renewable energy technologies and defence systems.
In addition, the two countries signed an MoU on mining and steel supply chains to enhance industrial cooperation.
Digital Partnership and Emerging Technologies
India and Brazil also formalised a Joint Declaration on Digital Partnership for the Future. The agreement focuses on expanding cooperation in digital governance, innovation ecosystems and emerging technologies.
Prime Minister Modi confirmed that both sides are working to establish a Centre of Excellence for Digital Public Infrastructure in Brazil. Collaboration in artificial intelligence, supercomputers, semiconductors and blockchain was identified as a priority.
President Lula praised India’s digital transformation journey and described the country as a “digital superpower,” highlighting the potential for technological synergy between the two nations.
Energy, Climate and Green Cooperation
Energy cooperation formed another central pillar of the discussions. Both countries agreed to accelerate partnerships in renewable energy, ethanol blending and sustainable aviation fuel.
Brazil’s active role in the Global Biofuel Alliance was welcomed by Prime Minister Modi as a sign of shared commitment to clean energy and climate responsibility. The leaders reiterated their intention to expand collaboration beyond hydrocarbons into broader green transition initiatives.
Global South and Multilateral Coordination
On global governance issues, the two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening the voice of the Global South. President Lula described the meeting as one between two major democratic powers with growing global influence.
Both leaders agreed that the current turbulent international scenario demands stronger strategic dialogue and multilateral cooperation. They emphasised coordinated engagement at platforms such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization and G20.
State Visit and Symbolic Gestures
President Lula was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier in the day and held delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House. He also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, underscoring the historical and moral bonds between the two nations.
The visit follows Prime Minister Modi’s trip to Brazil in July 2025, signalling sustained momentum in bilateral engagement.
As both nations aim to strengthen trade, technology and strategic collaboration, the agreements signed during this visit mark a decisive step toward a more resilient and future-oriented India-Brazil partnership.
