How was PM Modi welcomed by the Indian diaspora in Brasilia?

Brasilia, July 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm reception from the Indian diaspora upon his arrival in the Brazilian capital for a State Visit on Monday. Expressing gratitude for the heartfelt welcome, PM Modi referred to it as a “memorable welcome”, commending the diaspora for their enduring connection to their roots.

“I have just landed in Brasilia. The Indian community has once again provided a remarkable welcome, showcasing our diaspora's passion and their strong ties to their heritage,” PM Modi shared on X, accompanied by photographs of enthusiastic community members waving the Indian Tricolor and greeting him with folded hands.

Upon arriving, PM Modi enjoyed a traditional Brazilian Samba Reggae performance after a highly successful trip to Rio de Janeiro for the 17th BRICS Summit. He was welcomed at the airport by Brazilian Defence Minister Jose Mucio Monteiro Filho.

During his time in Brasilia, PM Modi is scheduled to meet with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to discuss matters concerning India-Brazil relations.

The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, announced on X: “Taking new strides in 🇮🇳-🇧🇷 steadfast partnership. PM @narendramodi has landed in the capital city of Brasilia on a State Visit to Brazil. On arrival, he was warmly received by Mr. José Múcio Monteiro Filho, Minister of Defence of 🇧🇷, at the airport. The welcome was delightfully musical, featuring the traditional Brazilian Samba Reggae performance.”

PM Modi also took to X, stating: “At Brasilia airport, the Batala Mundo band performed remarkable pieces. Their global initiative promotes Afro-Brazilian percussion, particularly Samba-Reggae from Salvador da Bahia, Brazil.”

A few hours prior, the Prime Minister characterized his visit to Rio de Janeiro as “very productive”.

“I am on my way to Brasilia for the State Visit, where I will engage in detailed discussions with President Lula regarding various aspects of India-Brazil ties. The Rio segment of my Brazil visit was quite fruitful. We engaged in extensive discussions at the BRICS Summit. I commend President Lula and the Brazilian Government for their efforts during their BRICS Presidency, enhancing the effectiveness of this platform. My bilateral meetings with world leaders will also strengthen India’s relationships with different nations,” PM Modi remarked on X.

Earlier on Monday, PM Modi commended BRICS for prioritizing critical issues such as the environment and health security, emphasizing their significance for the future of humanity. He highlighted that for India, climate justice is a moral imperative, not merely a choice.

Speaking at the BRICS session on Environment, COP-30, and Global Health, PM Modi reiterated that climate change and environmental safety are paramount for India. “For us, it’s not just energy; it’s about harmonizing life with nature,” stated the Prime Minister.

“I am pleased that under Brazil's chairmanship, BRICS has prioritized vital topics like the environment and health security. These issues are interconnected and crucial for a bright future for humanity.”

“This year, COP-30 is taking place in Brazil, making discussions on environmental matters within BRICS both timely and relevant. Climate change and environmental safety have consistently been top priorities for India. For us, it transcends mere energy; it embodies the balance between life and nature. While some view it as mere statistics, in India, it is ingrained in our daily lives and traditions. We regard the Earth as a mother. Thus, when Mother Earth calls upon us, we respond. We are evolving our mindset, behavior, and lifestyle,” the Prime Minister stated.

He added: “Embracing the spirit of ‘People, Planet, and Progress’, India has initiated several key projects — including Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree in the Name of Mother), the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Green Hydrogen Mission, the Global Biofuels Alliance, and the Big Cats Alliance.

“During India’s G20 Presidency, we emphasized sustainable development and narrowing the divide between the Global North and South. In pursuit of this goal, we achieved consensus among all nations on the Green Development Pact. To foster eco-friendly initiatives, we also introduced the Green Credits Initiative.