Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation on Thursday to address the implications of the recent tariffs imposed by the United States. The two leaders expressed their commitment to defending multilateralism and exploring greater integration between their nations in response to the economic challenges posed by these tariffs.
The call occurred a day after the US President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on India, raising the total to 50%, matching the tariffs applied to Brazilian goods. Lula has been critical of Trump's trade policies, calling the tariff decision "regrettable". He conveyed that he saw no immediate prospect for productive direct talks with Trump, asserting he would not "humiliate himself" by initiating contact when Trump seemed unwilling to negotiate. Instead, Lula is focusing on strengthening ties with BRICS partners like India and China, viewing them as key allies in counterbalancing Western economic pressure.
During the hour-long conversation, Modi and Lula recalled the significant outcomes of Modi's state visit to Brazil in July. They reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership between Brazil and India, encompassing trade, energy, technology, defense, health, and various other sectors. Modi emphasized the mutual benefit of a strong, people-centric partnership between Global South nations. Lula also confirmed that a state visit from Brazil to India is planned for early 2026.
As a preliminary step to the visit, it was agreed that Brazilian Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin would travel to India in October for the Trade Monitoring Mechanism meeting. The Brazilian delegation will include ministers and business representatives to discuss cooperation in trade, defense, energy, critical minerals, health, and digital inclusion.
Both leaders acknowledged the goal of increasing bilateral trade to over US$20 billion by 2030. To achieve this, they agreed to expand the scope of the agreement between MERCOSUR and India.
Lula's decision to reach out to Modi, especially after his public disapproval of Trump's tariff policies, highlights a strategic shift towards strengthening ties with emerging powers. This move indicates the increasing importance of the BRICS nations as a counterbalance to Western economic influence. The conversation underscores the evolving dynamics of global trade relationships, with Brazil determined to protect its national interests and foster alliances with like-minded nations.
