India–Brazil Relations

GS2 – International Relations

Context

PM Modi’s visit to Brazil for the 17th BRICS Summit marked the first by an Indian PM in nearly 60 years, underscoring the growing strategic and economic importance of the relationship.

Historical Connections:

• Colonial Linkages:
  • Both were part of the Portuguese empire.
  • Portuguese explorers reached Brazil (1500) and India (1498).
• Agricultural Exchange:
  • India introduced mangoes and coconuts to Brazil;
  • Brazil contributed cashew and cattle breeds (e.g., Nelore from Nellore).
• Cultural Parallels:
  • Language, religion, and cuisine show shared colonial legacies.

Strategic and Multilateral Cooperation:

• Platforms:
  • BRICS, G20, G4, IBSA, International Solar Alliance, Biofuture Platform.
• Institutional Mechanisms:
  • Joint Commission Meetings,
  • NSA-level strategic dialogue,
  • 2+2 Political-Military Dialogue (launched in 2024).
• Shared Global Goals:
  • Multilateral reform advocacy, especially UNSC expansion,
  • Global South solidarity.

Way Forward:

• Enhance Trade Links:
  • Accelerate Preferential Trade Agreement with MERCOSUR.
  • Expand into green tech, fintech, and services.
• Agriculture Collaboration:
  • Boost R&D in sustainable farming, livestock genetics, and biofuels.
• Cultural and Educational Diplomacy:
  • Promote exchange programs, scholarships, and festivals.
• Joint Voice in Global South:
  • Coordinate stances on climate finance, WTO reform, digital governance.