Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva described his latest visit to India as “very special,” reflecting on how his first trip to the country in 2005 significantly influenced Brazil’s economic direction.
Speaking at the India-Brazil Economic Forum in New Delhi, Lula recalled how he was deeply impressed when he learned that India had accumulated USD 100 billion in international hard currency reserves at the time. That visit convinced him that Brazil needed to strengthen its own financial security by building strong foreign exchange reserves.
Following that realization, Brazil shifted its economic policy. Under Lula’s leadership, the country moved from being a debtor of the IMF to becoming a creditor. Brazil eventually accumulated around USD 360 billion in international reserves — ranking among the top holders globally at that time.
Cultural Diplomacy and Warm Gestures
Lula also highlighted the cultural connection between the two nations. He shared how, during Narendra Modi’s visit to Brazil last year, his team researched the Indian Prime Minister’s favorite song and arranged a special musical performance at the Palacio da Alvorada in Brasília to surprise him.
During his current visit to India, Lula said he was pleasantly surprised when Brazilian songs were played at a state lunch in his honor. Among them was “Asa Branca,” a classic by renowned Brazilian composer Luiz Gonzaga, which made the moment particularly meaningful.
Rebuilding Brazil’s Global Image
Lula emphasized that this visit forms part of Brazil’s broader diplomatic strategy during his third presidential term. He stated that his government aims to restore Brazil’s international reputation and negotiation power.
In just over three years of his current term, Lula said Brazil has opened 520 new international markets for its products — a major achievement that exceeded expectations.
Visit Details
President Lula arrived in India on February 18 and participated in the India AI Impact Summit on February 19–20. This marks his fifth visit to India as President.
His trip comes seven months after Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to Brasília on July 8, 2025, reflecting the growing partnership between the two major nations of the Global South.
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