New Delhi, February 18: Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has expressed his admiration for Indian culture and hospitality. He greeted India with a heartfelt “Namaste” and shared his agenda through a video on social media, thanking the nation for its traditional welcome.
Following a ceremonial reception at the hotel, President Lula stated in his post, “Namaste, India! I am here with an important agenda. This agenda focuses on strengthening relationships, deepening partnerships, and discussing the future of AI globally. We will continue to work towards greater cooperation, innovation, and the creation of opportunities between our two countries.”
He was welcomed at Delhi Airport by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margerita.
The Ministry of External Affairs announced that during his visit, President Lula will participate in the India AI Impact Summit and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The ministry characterized this visit as a significant step towards enhancing the partnership between the two nations. It stated, “India and Brazil share a close and multifaceted relationship, which has evolved into a strategic partnership based on a shared global vision, democratic values, and a commitment to inclusive development. President Lula’s visit will give a tremendous boost to India-Brazil partnership.”
President Lula will remain in India until February 22, following an invitation from Prime Minister Modi. This time, he is accompanied by a delegation of hundreds of business owners and officials.
Before departing for India, he mentioned to reporters that he would participate in the summit and discuss new opportunities for collaboration between the two countries. He also noted that trade between India and Brazil exceeded $15 billion in 2025.
The Indian Foreign Ministry stated, “Both leaders will review all aspects of bilateral relations. Prime Minister Modi will host a luncheon. They will also exchange views on regional and global issues, including cooperation on multilateral platforms, multilateralism, global governance, and issues related to the Global South.”
President Droupadi Murmu will also meet with President Lula and host a banquet in his honor. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will also meet with the Brazilian President.
Accompanying President Lula is a large delegation of about 14 ministers and top CEOs from Brazilian companies, who will hold meetings with their Indian counterparts.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, this is President Lula’s sixth visit to India. He first visited in 2004 as the chief guest for Republic Day and last visited in September 2023 for the G20 Summit. However, Prime Minister Modi and President Lula have met frequently in between.
Prime Minister Modi visited Brasília for a state visit from July 7-8, 2025, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 57 years. The two leaders also met in November 2025 during the G20 in Johannesburg.
