New Delhi, India — February 21, 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva jointly addressed a press conference Saturday after signing three bilateral agreements focused on digital cooperation, rare minerals, and mining collaboration in steel supply chains.
The agreements mark a significant step in strengthening economic and strategic ties between the two major emerging economies.
Lula Calls India–Brazil Partnership “Unique”
President Lula described his visit as special, noting it was his sixth trip to India. He called the partnership between the two nations “unique,” saying they are not only among the largest democracies in the Global South but also represent a meeting between a digital powerhouse and a renewable energy powerhouse.
He highlighted that both countries are cultural centers rich in diversity and share a commitment to multilateralism and peace.
Reference to Modi’s Brazil Visit
Lula said his hosting of Modi in Brazil in July was a milestone in bilateral ties. During that visit, the two countries restructured their cooperation agenda across five sectors and signed multiple agreements to strengthen collaboration quality and long-term coordination.
Strategic Voice in Global Affairs
The Brazilian leader emphasized that India and Brazil play influential roles in shaping global discourse, particularly amid shifting geopolitical conditions. He said both nations must deepen their strategic dialogue to navigate global instability.
According to Lula, India and Brazil are key actors in international platforms such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and G20, where they work together toward a more just and peaceful multilateral system governed by international law.
Ceremonial Welcome and High-Level Meetings
Earlier in the day, Lula received a formal ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was greeted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi and given a Guard of Honor.
He also held talks with Modi at Hyderabad House and met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
Trade Push With New Brazil Office
On Friday, Lula inaugurated the first office of ApexBrasil in New Delhi. He said the agency will promote Brazilian products and services abroad and attract foreign investment into strategic sectors of Brazil’s economy.
His visit follows Modi’s July 2025 trip to Brazil, which was the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the country in nearly five decades.
