How did Brazil's President Lula Celebrate India's AI Impact Summit?
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New Delhi, Feb 19 (NationPress) Highlighting that an ancient Indian mathematician was the original creator of the Binary number system, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Thursday celebrated the AI Impact Summit taking place in New Delhi, claiming that the digital realm has returned to its roots.
The Brazilian leader, who was present alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the opening ceremony of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, commended the significant event being organized at a time when, as he noted, societies are at a pivotal juncture.
"For Brazil, it is a privilege to be part of the Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit arranged by the Indian government, marking the first occasion this has occurred in the Global South," President Lula shared on X.
"Here in Delhi, the digital world returns to its homeland. Indian mathematicians gifted us, over 2,000 years ago, the binary system that now forms the backbone of modern computing. We are gathering here to tackle one of our era's most pressing issues. Our societies are at a crossroads. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is accelerating while multilateralism is in retreat. In this environment, the governance of Artificial Intelligence takes on a fundamental role," he elaborated.
During his State Visit from February 18-22, President Lula is set to engage in discussions at the 2nd AI Impact Summit and meet PM Modi on February 21.
"Every impactful technological advancement has a dual aspect and presents us with ethical and political dilemmas. The fields of aviation, atomic energy, genetic engineering, and the space race exemplify this duality. They can enhance collective well-being or cast shadows upon it.
"Algorithms are not just mathematical codes that support the digital domain. They are integral to a complex power structure. Without collaborative action, Artificial Intelligence will exacerbate historical inequalities. Elements like computational capabilities, infrastructure, and capital are vital," he asserted.
Earlier that day, the Brazilian President met with Google CEO Sundar Pichai on the sidelines of the AI Impact Summit.
"Pichai emphasized Brazil's significance for Google, discussing the company's investments in the nation, the inauguration of the Engineering Center in Sao Paulo, and collaborative initiatives with the public sector. We presented Brazil's perspective on Artificial Intelligence, the government's digital public service initiatives, the Brazilian Artificial Intelligence Plan, and strategies to attract investments in data centers," President Lula noted on X following their meeting.
"We also addressed concerns regarding the risks of AI, particularly for women and girls, along with the proposed regulatory framework being deliberated in the National Congress, which includes measures to safeguard the Brazilian creative sector. Google expressed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Brazilian government and expanding collaborations with the private sector in our country," he added.
Upon arriving in New Delhi on Wednesday, President Lula shared a video on his social media showcasing the warm traditional welcome he received in the Indian capital.
"Namaste, India! I've arrived for another visit with a significant agenda: enhancing ties, fostering partnerships, and discussing the future of artificial intelligence globally. We continue to strive for increased cooperation, innovation, and opportunities between our nations," he posted on X after receiving a traditional welcome at his hotel.
Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita welcomed the Brazilian President at the Delhi airport.
"During his visit, President Lula will participate in the India–AI Impact Summit. PM Narendra Modi will also hold bilateral discussions with President Lula. India and Brazil enjoy a robust and multifaceted relationship, which has developed into a Strategic Partnership founded on shared democratic values and a mutual commitment to inclusive growth. President Lula’s visit is expected to significantly enhance the India-Brazil partnership," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on X following the Brazilian President's arrival.
On Tuesday evening, before departing for India, President Lula indicated that he would also be exploring new avenues for collaboration between the two nations during his visit.
"At the invitation of PM Narendra Modi, I am now on my way to India. In the upcoming days, I will participate in the AI Impact Summit and discuss new opportunities for cooperation between Brazil and India. From there, we will proceed to South Korea to, at the invitation of President Lee Jae Myung, further strengthen our bilateral ties," President Lula shared on X.
He noted that a high-level business delegation will accompany him on his visit to India to enhance commercial relations.
"In 2025, bilateral trade between Brazil and India surpassed US$ 15 billion," asserted the Brazilian President.