PM Modi thanks President Lula, reiterates commitment to India-Brazil strategic ties amid US tariff tiff

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a telephone call from Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Thursday, during which the two leaders exchanged views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to elevate the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership to new heights.

A PMO release highlighted that Prime Minister Modi recalled his recent visit to Brazil last month, during which both leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health, and people-to-people ties. Building on those discussions, they reaffirmed their commitment to deepen the partnership.

"The two leaders exchanged views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch," the release stated.

In his post on X about the telephone conversation with President Lula, PM Modi said, “Had a good conversation with President Lula. Thanked him for making my visit to Brazil memorable and meaningful. We are committed to deepening our Strategic Partnership including in trade, energy, tech, defence, health and more. A strong, people-centric partnership between Global South nations benefits everyone.”

The call came a day after US President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent due to India’s import of Russian oil. Brazil is facing similar tariffs from the United States. The Ministry of External Affairs characterised the US move as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable" and said New Delhi will take "all actions necessary to protect its national interests."

On Wednesday, Brazilian President Lula stated he would not call US President Trump to negotiate over tariffs but would instead invite him to the upcoming COP summit. He also mentioned that he planned to call Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

With inputs from ANI