Modi and Lula Pledge Stronger India-Brazil Ties Amid Rising US Tariffs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva reaffirmed their commitment to elevate the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership, focusing on trade, technology, energy, and defense. This comes as both nations respond to increased US tariffs, particularly those affecting oil imports.

In a significant diplomatic exchange, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva discussed enhancing their nations' Strategic Partnership. The leaders reiterated commitments to strengthen ties across various sectors, following Modi's recent visit to Brazil where cooperation frameworks were established for trade, technology, and defense.

The conversation unfolded against a backdrop of increased US tariffs on Indian goods due to oil imports from Russia, a pressure Brazil is also experiencing. Modi emphasized the importance of a robust, people-centric approach between Global South countries for mutual benefit and expressed gratitude towards Lula for the productive visit to Brazil.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has voiced disapproval over the US tariffs, labeling them as 'unfair' and vows to defend national interests. Meanwhile, President Lula stated his plans to convene with leaders such as Modi and China's Xi Jinping, rather than directly negotiating with US President Trump over the tariffs.

(With inputs from agencies.)