Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hold high-level talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in New Delhi, marking a significant step forward in India-Brazil strategic cooperation. The meeting comes at a crucial time when both nations are looking to deepen economic engagement and secure supply chains in key sectors.
A major focus of the discussions will be critical minerals and rare earth elements. India has been actively working to reduce its reliance on China for rare earth supplies, which are essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, smartphones, advanced defence systems, and aerospace technology. Brazil, which possesses the world’s second-largest reserves of critical minerals, has emerged as a natural partner in this effort. Officials from both sides are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding to enhance collaboration in mineral exploration, processing, and long-term supply agreements.
Defence manufacturing is also high on the agenda. Brazilian aerospace company Embraer is expected to sign an agreement with Adani Defense & Aerospace to establish the final assembly line for the E175 aircraft in India. The proposed deal would strengthen India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and align with the government’s push for domestic defence production under the “Make in India” initiative. For Brazil, it represents an opportunity to expand its global defence footprint in the fast-growing Asian market.
Trade expansion remains a central pillar of the bilateral relationship. India and Brazil have shared a Strategic Partnership since 2006, grounded in democratic values and growing economic cooperation. Bilateral trade crossed $15 billion in 2025, and both nations have set an ambitious target of reaching $20 billion by 2030. Brazil exports sugar, crude oil, vegetable oils, cotton, and iron ore to India, while Indian companies are strengthening their presence in pharmaceuticals, IT services, and engineering sectors in Latin America.
President Lula is accompanied by around 14 ministers and a large delegation of senior Brazilian business leaders. The delegation is scheduled to participate in a Business Forum aimed at boosting commercial ties and unlocking new investment opportunities. The visit reflects increasing momentum in economic diplomacy between the two emerging economies.
Beyond economic matters, the two leaders will review the full spectrum of bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global issues. Discussions are expected to include cooperation in multilateral platforms such as the G20 and BRICS, reform of global governance institutions, and issues affecting the Global South. Both leaders have maintained consistent engagement over the past few years, including meetings during international summits and regular telephonic conversations.
During his visit, President Lula is also scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Prime Minister Modi will host an official lunch in his honour, underscoring the warmth and depth of the bilateral relationship.
The meeting highlights the growing strategic alignment between India and Brazil at a time when global supply chains are being reshaped and emerging economies are asserting greater influence on the world stage. With cooperation expanding in minerals, defence manufacturing, trade, and multilateral engagement, the partnership between New Delhi and Brasília appears poised for a stronger and more future-focused trajectory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why is PM Narendra Modi meeting Brazil’s President Lula in New Delhi?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is meeting Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to strengthen cooperation in critical minerals, trade, defence manufacturing, and multilateral engagement. The talks aim to deepen the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership and expand economic collaboration.
Q2. What are critical minerals and why are they important for India?
Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, are essential for manufacturing electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, smartphones, jet engines, and advanced defence equipment. India is seeking to diversify its supply sources, and Brazil — which has the world’s second-largest reserves — is seen as a key partner.
Q3. What is the Embraer–Adani E175 aircraft deal?
Brazilian aerospace major Embraer is expected to sign an agreement with Adani Defense & Aerospace to set up a final assembly line for the E175 aircraft in India. The deal would boost domestic aerospace manufacturing and strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries.
Q4. What is the current trade volume between India and Brazil?
Bilateral trade between India and Brazil crossed $15 billion in 2025. Both countries have set a target to increase trade to $20 billion by 2030.
Q5. Which sectors dominate India-Brazil trade?
Brazil exports sugar, crude oil, vegetable oils, cotton, and iron ore to India. India exports pharmaceuticals, chemicals, engineering goods, and IT services to Brazil.
Q6. Is this President Lula’s first visit to India?
No, this is President Lula’s second visit to India. He previously visited New Delhi for the G20 Summit in 2023 and has met PM Modi multiple times at global forums.
Q7. What global issues will be discussed during the meeting?
The leaders are expected to discuss cooperation in multilateral forums such as G20 and BRICS, global governance reforms, and issues concerning the Global South.
Q8. Who else will meet President Lula during his visit?
President Lula is scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. PM Modi will also host an official lunch in his honour.