Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brazil on Sunday, July 6, 2025, for a four-day visit that includes participation in the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and a subsequent state visit to Brasilia. This visit marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brazil in nearly six decades.
Upon his arrival at Galeao International Airport in Rio de Janeiro, PM Modi was greeted with a ceremonial welcome. He was warmly received by Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, with the two leaders sharing a hug. The Indian diaspora in Brazil extended a vibrant welcome to PM Modi, highlighted by a cultural program that included a traditional dance performance centered on the theme of "Operation Sindoor".
"Operation Sindoor" was a military offensive launched on May 7, targeting terrorist sites across Pakistan and PoK in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The dance performance, featuring the song "Saugandh Mujhe Iss Mitti Ki," paid tribute to the Indian armed forces and their efforts in combating terrorism. The performance struck an emotional chord, and PM Modi praised the community's creativity and spirit. He also took pictures with the dance group.
PM Modi expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome, stating, "Members of Brazil's Indian community gave a very vibrant welcome in Rio de Janeiro. It's amazing how they remain connected with Indian culture and are also very passionate about India's development!".
During his visit, PM Modi will attend the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6 and 7. The BRICS summit includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE as the new members. The summit is expected to address critical global issues, including security, climate action, artificial intelligence, multilateral reform, and health collaboration. India is also pushing for trade settlement in national currencies, which would reduce the global South's dependence on the US dollar. On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi is expected to hold several bilateral meetings with global leaders.
Following the BRICS Summit, PM Modi will travel to Brasilia for a state visit, where he will hold bilateral discussions with President Lula da Silva. Their discussions will focus on broadening the Strategic Partnership in areas of mutual interest, including trade, defense, energy, space, technology, agriculture, and health.
Ahead of PM Modi's arrival, members of the Indian community in Brazil expressed their excitement and pride. Vijay Solanki, a long-time resident from Gujarat, said, "We are very excited and feel honoured to welcome our Prime Minister today". Another member, Pooja, shared, "I've been living in Brazil for three years, and this is a proud moment for us".
PM Modi's visit to Brazil underscores the strengthening relationship between India and Brazil, two of the largest democracies in the Global South. The visit is expected to further enhance cooperation across various sectors and contribute to a multipolar world order.
