Jaishankar and Lula Discuss Strategic Partnership in New Delhi

S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on February 21, 2026, in New Delhi. The meeting is part of Lula’s state visit to India, aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for Lula’s guidance in advancing their strategic partnership and anticipated that upcoming discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would provide fresh momentum to their relationship.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar shared his sentiments on X, stating, “Honoured to call on President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil. Deeply appreciate his warm sentiments and guidance on advancing our Strategic Partnership. Confident that his meetings with PM @narendramodi later today will impart a new momentum to our ties.”

Ceremonial Welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Earlier on the same day, President Lula received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. He was greeted by PM Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, who accorded him a Guard of Honour, marking the significance of this diplomatic visit.

Fostering Trade and Economic Cooperation

During his visit, President Lula inaugurated the first office of the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex) in New Delhi. This initiative aims to promote Brazilian products and attract foreign investments in key sectors of Brazil’s economy. Lula emphasized that this office would serve as a crucial platform for enhancing Brazil’s economic outreach.

Kenneth da Nobrega, Brazil’s ambassador to India, highlighted the historic nature of the bilateral relationship between the two countries. In a conversation with ANI, he remarked on the growing rapport between President Lula and PM Modi, describing it as a significant step towards elevating their ties. “There is a very good chemistry. I think they are not only colleagues, but they have become more and more friends,” he stated.

Ambassador da Nobrega noted that Lula’s delegation includes over 300 business leaders, comprising more than 50 CEOs from prominent Brazilian companies. This delegation is expected to participate in a Business Forum aimed at exploring opportunities for collaboration and investment.

Lula’s visit follows PM Modi’s trip to Brasilia in July 2025, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Brazil in over 50 years. This visit underscores a renewed commitment to deepen economic and strategic ties between India and Brazil, especially in the context of the evolving landscape of global trade and technology.

The discussions between the leaders are anticipated to cover various aspects of collaboration, including technology, trade, and investment, reflecting a mutual desire to enhance bilateral relations further.