In a significant diplomatic conversation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva held a telephonic conversation. The leaders touched upon several crucial issues, including the situation in West Asia, bilateral cooperation, and global governance.
The two leaders, in their conversation, expressed deep concern over the ongoing terrorism, violence, and civilian casualties in West Asia. They called for united efforts to bring about an early resolution to the turmoil in the region, highlighting the importance of stability and peace.
Prime Minister Modi conveyed India’s unwavering support for the upcoming Brazilian Presidency of the G20, underlining the commitment to strengthening global cooperation and addressing pressing challenges. Their discussion built upon their previous meeting during the G20 Summit held in New Delhi.
Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Modi shared his thoughts, saying, “Had a good conversation on the phone with President @LulaOficial. We are committed to deepening our strategic partnership.” He went on to mention their shared concerns regarding the situation in West Asia and their determination to build upon the successes of India’s G20 Presidency as Brazil prepares to assume the mantle.
Had a good conversation on phone with President @LulaOficial. We are committed to deepen our strategic partnership. Shared our concerns on the situation in West Asia. Will continue to build on the successes of India’s G20 Presidency as Brazil takes over next month.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 10, 2023
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also reciprocated the sentiments, congratulating Prime Minister Modi for India’s successful stewardship of the G20. He expressed keen interest in cooperating with India during Brazil’s presidency of this influential forum. President Lula also graciously accepted invitations to participate in two upcoming virtual summits, namely the Voice of Global South summit and the G20 virtual summit.
During their conversation, President Lula updated Prime Minister Modi on Brazil’s efforts to repatriate citizens who were in Israel and the West Bank, underscoring the importance of international cooperation and the challenges faced in the region. Brazil continues to await an opening of the Gaza border to facilitate the repatriation of Brazilian citizens and their Palestinian relatives through Egypt.
The leaders also discussed the fragility of multilateralism, as exemplified by the UN Security Council’s veto of a Brazilian proposal, despite significant support. Prime Minister Modi commended President Lula for Brazil’s role in the Council’s presidency and stressed the importance of BRICS members participating in the reform of global governance institutions. President Lula proposed convening a meeting of IBSA chancellors in the next semester as a precursor to a group summit in 2024.
President Lula emphasized Brazil’s desire for India’s partnership in safeguarding democracy against extremism and denialism, signaling the importance of closer relations between the two nations in trade, energy transition, technology, and political consultations within international forums. He stressed, “Brazil and India’s relations must match the magnitude of their economies and populations.”
