President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil arrived in New Delhi on February 18, 2026, for a significant five-day state visit. He was received at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita. The President is accompanied by a high-powered delegation comprising senior cabinet ministers, top government officials, and representatives from major Brazilian corporations, while this visit marks a crucial milestone in the diplomatic calendar, aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between the two largest democracies of the Global South.
Participation in India AI Impact Summit 2026
A central component of President Lula's itinerary is his participation in the 'India AI Impact Summit 2026' held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The summit focuses on the global governance of Artificial Intelligence, ethical deployment, and fostering international collaboration in emerging technologies, while president Lula is expected to address the summit, highlighting the importance of technological sovereignty and the role of AI in driving inclusive growth. The participation underscores the shared vision of India and Brazil in leveraging digital innovation for social and economic development.
Strategic Bilateral Meeting with PM Modi
During the visit, President Lula will hold comprehensive bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to official statements, the discussions will cover a wide array of sectors including defense, space, nuclear energy, and cyber security, while the two leaders are expected to review the progress of the strategic partnership and explore new avenues for cooperation in high-technology areas. The meeting is also likely to touch upon regional and global issues of mutual interest, emphasizing the need for a multipolar world order.
Economic Cooperation and Trade Targets
Strengthening economic ties remains a top priority for both nations. Currently, bilateral trade between India and Brazil stands at approximately $15-20 billion. Officials have indicated a roadmap to increase this figure to $50 billion in the near future. Brazil is a key supplier of agricultural commodities and energy to India, while India exports pharmaceuticals, IT services, and engineering goods to Brazil. Special emphasis will be placed on cooperation in biofuels, particularly ethanol, and securing supply chains for critical minerals essential for the green energy transition.
Strengthening Global South Leadership
India and Brazil share a long history of cooperation in multilateral forums such as BRICS, G20, IBSA, and the United Nations. President Lula's visit is seen as a move to further consolidate the voice of the Global South on the international stage. Both nations have been consistent advocates for reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The discussions are expected to align their positions on climate change, sustainable development goals, and the restructuring of global financial institutions to better serve developing economies.
Cultural, Educational, and Sports Collaboration
Beyond strategic and economic interests, the visit aims to enhance people-to-people ties through cultural and educational exchanges, while several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed in the fields of education, tourism, and sports. Given Brazil's prowess in football and India's growing sports infrastructure, collaboration in sports training and exchange programs is a key area of interest. This visit, being President Lula's second to India, highlights the enduring cultural affinity and the desire to build stronger social bridges between the two nations.