PM Modi to meet Brazilian President Lula: Critical minerals, trade cooperation - what's on agenda
Times of India
by TOI BUSINESS DESKFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to host Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in New Delhi, focusing on strengthening ties in critical minerals, trade, and strategic supply chains. The meeting aims to deepen collaboration between the two emerging economies, particularly amid India's efforts to reduce reliance on China and secure access to essential resources like rare earth elements. Brazil,拥有全球第二大稀土储备国, holds significant reserves of these minerals crucial for electric vehicles, electronics, and renewable energy systems.
The agenda includes a memorandum of understanding to ensure long-term supply chains of critical minerals, boosting resource cooperation between India and Brazil. Both nations are targeting $20 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, up from $15 billion in 2025. Discussions will also explore expanding collaboration in sectors like clean energy, mining, aviation, and manufacturing. For instance, a partnership between Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer and India's Adani Group to manufacture aircraft in India signals growing industrial ties.
Lula's visit highlights Brazil's role as India's largest trading partner in Latin America, with key exports including crude oil, sugar, iron ore, and agricultural commodities. The talks are also expected to address global economic challenges and multilateral trade tensions, reflecting both nations' commitment to shaping emerging trade frameworks and strengthening Global South partnerships.
This collaboration matters because it underscores the growing shift in global geopolitics and economic strategy. As India seeks to diversify its resource sourcing and reduce dependence on China, partnerships with countries like Brazil become crucial for securing strategic minerals essential for modern industries. The meeting not only strengthens bilateral ties but also positions both nations as key players in shaping future trade dynamics and supply chain resilience.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/21/2026